This bill, HB 54-FN, amends existing laws to allow alternative treatment centers registered under RSA 126-X to operate as for-profit entities, expanding their organizational structure beyond the previous not-for-profit model. The bill modifies the definition of "alternative treatment center" to include domestic business corporations and limited liability companies, while removing the requirement for these centers to be not-for-profit entities. It introduces provisions for the conversion of voluntary corporations into business corporations or limited liability companies, with specific conditions such as a three-year prohibition on selling memberships or shares to foreign corporations. Additionally, the governance structure is updated to require boards to include at least one licensed medical professional and one qualified patient, ensuring a majority of board members are New Hampshire residents. The bill also clarifies that alternative treatment centers may operate on a for-profit basis without needing tax-exempt status from the IRS and outlines procedural requirements for entity conversions and mergers, with oversight from the secretary of state. The estimated fiscal impact includes a one-time expenditure of $13,000 for necessary software and changes within the Department of State, which will be funded by non-general fund revenue sources. The Department of Health and Human Services has indicated that the bill will not affect its operations, with fiscal implications expected to begin in FY 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 126-X:1, 126-X:7, 126-X:8, 292:7, 293-A:9, 304-C:149