Governor Hassan to Nominate Department of Safety Commissioner John Barthelmes to New Term

Statement

As part of her ongoing efforts to maintain New Hampshire's status as one of the safest states in the nation, Governor Maggie Hassan today announced that at tomorrow's Governor and Council meeting, she will nominate Department of Safety Commissioner John Barthelmes to a new term.

"As Commissioner of the Department of Safety, John Barthelmes has focused on keeping New Hampshire one of the safest states in the nation and improving services to our citizens," Governor Hassan said. "Under his leadership, the department has managed severe weather events and other emergencies. In addition, the department has dramatically reduced wait times at the Division of Motor Vehicles, given citizens the option to renew their drivers' licenses online, and undertaken a number of other improvements. Ensuring the safety of our people and communities is the most important role of state government, and I thank Commissioner Barthelmes for his dedication to keeping our people and communities safe."

With more than 20 years of experience with the New Hampshire State Police, Commissioner Barthelmes was first appointed as Commissioner of the Department of Safety by Governor John Lynch in 2007. He also previously served as deputy director and director of the New England High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area. He is currently the chairman of the New Hampshire Advisory Council on Emergency Preparedness and Security and serves on the Governor's Commission on Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery.

"It has been an honor to work to keep the people and communities of New Hampshire among the safest in the nation, and I thank Governor Hassan for once again entrusting me with this important responsibility," Commissioner Barthelmes said.

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