N.H. lawmakers hear heated debate over mandated health‑education videos on abortion, fetal development and adoption

Representative John Sellers, Grafton 10 (Bridgewater), opened the committee hearing by presenting three related bills proposing required instruction or viewing of specific materials in health education. He described the videos and materials as “educational, medically accurate, comprehensive, and age appropriate” and said they would ensure consistent instruction across districts.

The debate focused on three bills: HB 662 would require showing videos demonstrating abortion procedures during health classes; HB 667 would require viewing an animated gestational‑development video (widely referred to in testimony as “Meet Baby Olivia”); and HB 730 would require schools to provide information about adoption options. Sellers said parents would remain able to opt out and that his intent was to give students “accurate knowledge” about reproductive topics.

Supporters included representatives of New Hampshire Right to Life, several parents and self‑described former patients who testified that the materials would inform students and could change decisions. Kurt Welper, who identified himself as chairman of New Hampshire Right to Life, said the videos would show the “miraculous development” of pregnancy and help students understand clinical procedures. Walter…