As folks know, I was the NH Dept of Education Liaison to the HB131 Senate Study Commission for GrandFamilies. The Commission was tasked to find out what the needs were of Grandparents who suddenly found out that they now had parenting responsibilities once again after, perhaps, years of being empty nesters.
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While the reasons are varied, most situations arose due to the opioid epidemic where the parents of little ones to school-aged kids could not care for their offspring.
Grandparents stepped up and stepped in to do the best they could regardless of financial situations, age differences (80-year-olds caring for 5, 6, or 7-year-olds), privacy laws, special needs, and all the rest even as some of them needed help themselves.
They did what should be done – family being the first responders and not saying, “I’ve done my time already.” Regardless of the difficulties, they answered the call and took up the duties once again. But some struggled, and many continue to struggle.
Some recognized that information and services might be needed – a hand up. Some (like me!) recognized that the State was a problem and had to learn to get out of the way at times. Thus, study time.
I hadn’t heard much lately. We couldn’t meet en masse because of ‘Rona, and things ground to a halt.
After some time of silence, I contacted the Chair and found that no extension was made after the official end date of June 30th because the Legislature wasn’t in session to do one.
One and Done?
Well, not necessarily but not a done deal as NH State Senator Hennessey (D), the prime sponsor, decided not to run for re-election.
So, I have an ask from me to our ‘Grok Friends in the Legislature – either chamber – would you be willing to sponsor such legislation to continue the work of the Commission?
I understand everyone is out campaigning – it is what you should be doing right now. However, after November 3rd, if you are successful, what would I need to do to convince you to help get this puppy restarted?
Yes, this is personal, as you all know. I mention the Grandson here from time to time. I, as one of those folks affected by this, would be grateful.