This bill introduces provisions specifically for nonresident H-2A temporary agricultural workers in New Hampshire regarding the operation of motor vehicles. It allows these workers to drive in New Hampshire if they hold a valid driver's license or permit from another U.S. jurisdiction or from a jurisdiction outside the United States, provided they meet certain criteria. These criteria include being at least 18 years old, lawfully present in the U.S., present in the U.S. for less than a year, and possessing an international driving permit if their foreign license is not in English. H-2A workers who meet these conditions are given a maximum of 300 days from the date they establish residency in New Hampshire to obtain a New Hampshire driver's license.
The bill also amends RSA 263:35 to extend the period within which a nonresident who establishes residency in New Hampshire must obtain a state driver's license from 60 days to 300 days for H-2A workers. This extension is specifically for H-2A workers who satisfy the requirements under the newly inserted RSA 263:35-a. The bill includes gender-neutral language by inserting "or her" alongside "his" in the context of nonresident drivers. The act is approved on August 4, 2023, and will take effect on October 3, 2023.
Statutes affected: As Amended by the House: 263:35
Version adopted by both bodies: 263:35
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 263:35