CONCORD -The House of Representatives went into a 20-minute recess after a heated argument that sounded like a fight could break out any minute among some Republicans Thursday over a bill related to gun background checks.

Some in Representatives Hall yelled, “lies.” House Speaker Sherman Packard, R-Londonderry, gaveled members back to their seats shortly after 2 p.m.  Motions to reprimand Rep. Terry Roy, R-Deerfield, and Rep. Cyril Aures, R-Chichester, were both tabled.

House Minority Leader Matt Wilhelm, D-Manchester, said in a statement: “Today, the behavior from Republicans following the passage of a bipartisan gun violence prevention provision, HB 1711, which was first introduced following the death of Chief Bradley Haas, was a despicable stain on this hallowed legislative body. Escalating tempers in the chamber, where we know guns are present, is unproductive and potentially dangerous for the safety of House members, staff, press, and the visiting public. Democrats chose to support tabling a debate on reprimanding the members in an effort to de-escalate a potentially dangerous situation. This behavior was unbecoming of the New Hampshire House of Representatives and should be strongly condemned by all legislators. I know it will be topic of my conversations with the Speaker moving forward.”

The House Republican Office didn’t immediately respond to request seeking comment. didn’t imme

State Rep. Wendy Thomas, D-Merrimack, said on Twitter, now X: “Literal floor fight on the NH House floor following vote on gun restrictions.”
More information about today’s House and Senate Sessions later today day from InDepthNH.org’s Paula Tracy and Ani Freedman.