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 an accused individual to petition the governor and the New Hampshire House of Representatives to declare them as politically persecuted or maliciously prosecuted if they believe their charges are related to such protected activities.

The new legal language inserted into the bill includes provisions that outline the conditions under which the governor is not required to effect an arrest or extradition, specifically when charges are based on constitutionally protected activities. Additionally, it allows for a process where the accused can seek a declaration of political persecution or malicious prosecution, which, if affirmed by the governor or a majority vote of the House, would prevent extradition. The bill is set to take effect on January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 612:2