This bill introduces new legal provisions regarding contempt of the general court by establishing both criminal penalties and civil remedies. Specifically, it amends RSA 642 by adding a new section, 642:11, which outlines that any individual who knowingly fails to comply with a subpoena issued by either house of the general court, or who refuses to answer questions or produce requested documents, may be found guilty of a misdemeanor if determined to be in contempt by a majority vote of the respective chamber. Prosecutions for this offense can only be initiated by the Department of Justice and must occur in the superior court for Merrimack County.

Additionally, the bill provides a civil remedy for non-compliance with subpoenas, allowing the general court to petition the superior court to compel compliance. If the individual fails to demonstrate valid legal justification for their non-compliance, the court can order compliance and impose civil sanctions, including fines or incarceration, which would end upon compliance with the subpoena. The bill clarifies that it does not limit the inherent constitutional powers of the general court to enforce compliance or punish non-compliance. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2026.