Commerce Committee Advances Bill to Create New Hampshire–Hellenic Republic Trade Council
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Summary
The Commerce Committee voted to advance SB526, a bill to establish a New Hampshire–Greece (Hellenic Republic) Trade Council. Sponsor Sen. Denise Rishardi said the council would help local businesses access Greek markets; the committee approved a naming amendment and voted the bill out as amended.
The Senate Commerce Committee voted to advance Senate Bill 526, which would create a New Hampshire–Hellenic Republic Trade Council to promote trade, investment and cultural ties with Greece. Senator Denise Rishardi, sponsor of the measure, told the committee the council would open export opportunities for New Hampshire companies, attract investment and tap the state’s sizable Greek‑American community.
Rishardi said the council could largely fund itself through private donations and grants; she offered a committee amendment clarifying the formal country name (Hellenic Republic) and adjusting language to reflect how trade councils in Greece are formed. Supporters included Dagan Ignost of the Greek‑American business community and Simon Ontegos, who identified himself as the Consul General of Greece for New England. Ontegos told senators that Greece’s trade section and the American Hellenic Chamber of Commerce are prepared to organize trade missions and help promote business links.
The committee voted the amendment as "ought to pass" and then advanced SB526 as amended by voice vote. Committee members asked that the bill not be placed on consent but requested Senator Schardy to bring the measure to the floor at the next session day.
The committee recessed briefly after the vote and indicated the bill will be scheduled for floor consideration next Thursday.
