The 2012 Legislator of the Year is presented to Senator Jeb Bradley for his tireless efforts as prime sponsor, knowledgeable and forceful advocate, engaged collaborator, and thoughtful strategist in support of SB 286. For those in the audience who know or have worked with Senator Bradley during his years of public service as a member of the New Hampshire House of Representatives, a member of the United States House of Representatives, and currently as a member and Majority Leader of the New Hampshire Senate, you know that among his many accomplishments is membership in the Four Thousand Footer Club – which signifies that he has climbed all 48 peaks in New Hampshire above 4000 feet, and that he has accomplished winter ascents of all these peaks.
As I thought about my remarks this evening, it seemed that a mountain climbing analogy was an appropriate one for Senator Bradley’s efforts in support of SB 286. As has been noted, passing Prescription Monitoring Program (PMP) legislation in New Hampshire has proven to be a steep climb – PMP bills have been deferred or defeated in 5 of the last 7 legislative sessions. To be successful in the challenging political climate of the 2012 legislative session required strong, committed, and knowledgeable leadership and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse individuals and groups. Senator Bradley provided this leadership and collaborative support and guidance. He took the time to fully understand the public policy issues; worked closely with New Futures and the NH Medical Society on the drafting of the legislation and the development of the communications and advocacy strategy; he attended and fully participated in all public hearings on SB 286; and reached out to House members in support of the bill. Without his leadership and support, SB 286 would not have become law.
At the risk of pushing the mountain climbing analogy too far, I note that before the 2012 legislative session began in earnest, Senator Bradley took a long planned trip to trek in Nepal. I believe that the heavy lifting in the high altitude/low oxygen atmosphere environment of Nepal prepared him well to shepherd SB 286 through the peaks and valleys of the New Hampshire legislative process. It is with great pleasure that New Futures presents its 2012 Legislator of the Year Award to Senator Jeb Bradley. In the spirit of collaboration that is the hallmark of SB 286, Senator Bradley has requested the opportunity to thank others who worked with him on this bill..
