This bill amends existing law to enhance the rights of crime victims by allowing them to request a free initial police report and, after the conclusion of the investigation or case, a free copy of the complete case file. Specifically, it adds new legal language to RSA 21-M:8-k, II(i), granting victims the right to receive the initial report from law enforcement within 7 business days at no cost, as well as the complete case file within 15 business days following the adjudication by the investigating or prosecuting agency, also at no cost.

The bill does not allocate any funding or authorize new positions, and while it is expected to have a minor fiscal impact on state, county, and local law enforcement agencies due to the costs associated with producing these reports, the exact financial implications are indeterminable. The New Hampshire Municipal Association has indicated that there may be minimal costs related to staff time for preparing and reviewing reports, but these are expected to be under $10,000 for individual municipalities. The bill is set to take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 21-M:8-k
As Amended by the House: 21-M:8-k