On Wednesday the House approved HB 574,which repeals the Emergency Powers Act.
The Emergency Powers Act says during a declared emergency – with the permission of the governor and the executive council - the government can take property ranging from vehicles to “provisions for man or beast… in excess of the reasonable and immediate needs of the owner and the owner's household.”
It requires a warrant “specifying the particular real property and the personal property by specification of the types, quantities, and general location, together with the names of the owners.”
The owner must be reimbursed later.
As NHPR reportedopponents said it was over-reaching by the government. Those who opposed the repeal said the act could be vital in an emergency.
The bill (which passed 257 to 87) still has to pass the Senate and be signed by Gov. Lynch.
Nine North Country representatives voted in favor:
* Duffy Daugherty (Republican) of Colebrook.
* Larry Rappaport (Republican) of Colebrook.
* Herb Richardson (Republican) of Lancaster
* John Tholl (Republican) of Whitefield
* Marc Tremblay (Republican) of Berlin
* Lyle Bulis (Republican) of Littleton
* Kathleen Taylor (Democrat) of Franconia
* Gregory Sorg (Republican) of Easton.
* Edmond Gionet (Republican) of Lincoln.
Five North Country reps voted against it:
* William Remick (Republican) of Lancaster
* Gary Coulombe (Democrat) of Berlin
* Robert Theberge (Democrat) of Berlin
* William Hatch (Democrat) of Gorham
* Yvonne Thomas (Democrat) of Berlin
Two North Country reps were excused:
* Evalyn Merrick (Democrat) of Lancaster
* Stephanie Eaton (Republican) of Littleton
To check votes on other bills.