01/26/2026
SB 480 is an important bill that would strengthen services that children and families rely on—including early identification, referrals, and family support.
When these services are supported, families get connected sooner, kids get help earlier, and outcomes improve across our communities.
Please consider taking a moment to contact your legislators and urge them to support SB 480. Let them know how vital these services are for children, caregivers, and providers.
Together, we can help ensure families get the support they need—when they need it most. 🌱
Dear Colleagues,
I’m writing to encourage your support for New Hampshire House Bill 1051 (HB 1051), currently before the Legislature. This bill would establish a study commission to explore the creation of a statewide fingerprinting and background check database in New Hampshire.
Why this matters to occupational therapists:
Streamlines background checks: Therapists working in multiple school districts or programs often undergo repeated fingerprinting and background checks. A centralized database could reduce delays, duplication, and administrative burden.
Improves access to work: Faster and more efficient background clearances can help occupational therapists start work more quickly in schools and other settings where these checks are required.
Informed decision-making: The commission will review current procedures, identify barriers in professional fingerprint and background practices, and examine models from other states - helping to shape practical recommendations.
Potential cost insights: The study will also evaluate costs associated with a centralized system, which can inform future policy without committing to implementation upfront.
HB 1051 would not itself create the database, but establish the foundation for smarter, more efficient checks that benefit providers, employers, and the public.
Please consider contacting the Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee to express support for HB 1051 before the committee hearing. Streamlining background checks is a practical reform that helps reduce barriers to practice and supports timely delivery of occupational therapy services across New Hampshire.
Thank you for advocating for policies that strengthen our profession.
the NHOTA Advocacy Committee
