This bill amends RSA 612:2 regarding the extradition of fugitives from justice in New Hampshire. It establishes that while the governor has a duty to extradite individuals charged with crimes in other states, this duty does not apply if the charges are based solely on allegations of constitutionally protected activities. The bill introduces new provisions that allow individuals who believe they are being politically persecuted or maliciously prosecuted to petition the governor and the New Hampshire House of Representatives for a declaration of their status. If such a declaration is made, the individual would be exempt from extradition.

The bill includes several key insertions: it specifies that the governor's duty to extradite does not apply if the charges are related to constitutionally protected activities, and it outlines a process for the accused to seek a declaration of political persecution or malicious prosecution. The language that has been deleted from current law includes references to the Constitution of the United States and acts of Congress, which are no longer explicitly mentioned in the context of the governor's duty. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 612:2