This bill amends RSA 206:42 to establish a Fish and Game Search and Rescue Fund, which will receive an additional fee of $1 for each private boat, off-highway recreational vehicle (OHRV), and snowmobile registered. Furthermore, the state treasurer is mandated to credit up to $200,000 annually from the general fund to this search and rescue fund. If the funds from both the additional fees and the general fund are insufficient for search and rescue operations, the executive director of the fish and game department can certify the shortfall to the state treasurer, who will then allocate the necessary funds from the general fund. The bill also allows the executive director to invest in technology to facilitate the solicitation and collection of donations, which will also be credited to the search and rescue fund.

Additionally, the bill appropriates $50,000 from the general fund for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2027, specifically for the purpose of investing in technology to enhance donation collection for search and rescue operations. The special fund created by this bill is nonlapsing, meaning that all funds received will be continually appropriated for search and rescue operations, including salaries, training, and equipment. The fish and game department is required to report quarterly on the expenditures from this fund, detailing search and rescue operations and the remaining balance. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 206:42