The Anti-sanctuary Act prohibits any state or local government entity in New Hampshire from establishing sanctuary policies. Sanctuary policies are defined as policies that prohibit cooperation with the enforcement of federal immigration laws. The bill establishes a complaint process and penalties for violations of this prohibition. It also includes provisions regarding implementation and prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, language, or national origin.
The bill is expected to result in an increase in civil case filings in the Superior Court and associated case filings, hearings, and trials. The Department of Justice expects that the bill will require additional investigative and litigation resources, but the exact cost cannot be determined. The New Hampshire Municipal Association assumes that the bill may result in additional expenditures at the municipal level if the Attorney General commences an enforcement action against a municipality that is deemed not to be in compliance with the law.