Good News for Compassionate Care: SB 248 Advances in the NH House

We’re pleased to share some encouraging news from Concord: SB 248, the bill proposing the creation of a legislative study committee on palliative and hospice care, has passed the House Health and Human Services (HHS) Committee. It now moves to the full House and has been placed on the consent calendar for this week — a real sign of bipartisan support.

This is a meaningful step forward for individuals and families across New Hampshire who are navigating serious illness, long-term care, and end-of-life challenges.

Why SB 248 Matters

SB 248 would establish a legislative committee to evaluate the availability of, and barriers to, palliative and hospice care in New Hampshire. The focus is on communities that often face the greatest obstacles in accessing consistent, high-quality care:

  • People with disabilities

  • Individuals receiving long-term care

  • People living with dementia

  • Veterans

  • Survivors of traumatic brain injury (TBI)

As the bill text notes, many individuals—particularly those with TBI—experience poor access to ongoing palliative care, despite strong evidence that this type of care significantly improves quality of life. Addressing these gaps is not just a matter of policy — it’s a matter of dignity and compassion.

The Role of BIANH

The Brain Injury Association of New Hampshire (BIANH) played a leading role in advocating for SB 248, offering expert testimony and a clear voice on behalf of those living with brain injuries. Their perspective helped center the conversation on the lived experiences of individuals who are too often overlooked in healthcare policy discussions.

In a time when public discourse around medical aid in dying is becoming increasingly polarized, this bill takes a thoughtful approach by ensuring the legislature also explores hospice care as a powerful alternative — one that offers comfort, connection, and dignity at the end of life.

What’s Next

With SB 248 heading to the House floor, now is the time to stay engaged. Watch for updates from BIANH and other advocacy groups, and consider reaching out to your local representatives to express your support for continued exploration of this critical issue.

Together, we can help shape a healthcare system that honors every stage of life — including its final chapter.

For more information on BIANH’s advocacy and resources, visit www.bianh.org.

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