This bill introduces significant changes to the prosecution of misdemeanor sexual assault cases involving minors and clarifies the reporting duties of sexual offenders. It requires defendants charged with misdemeanor sexual assault of a minor under 18 to choose between waiving their right to a jury trial and proceeding in circuit court or appealing to superior court for a jury trial. The bill amends existing legal language, replacing references to "District Court Rule 2.14" with "Rule of Criminal Procedure 21(a)" and introduces a new section (RSA 632-A:9-a) that outlines the procedures for these specific cases, ensuring that defendants are fully informed of their rights before waiving a jury trial.

Additionally, the bill modifies the reporting requirements for sexual offenders and offenders against children. It mandates that these individuals report to local law enforcement within five business days of specific events, including their release or conviction of a sexual offense, and clarifies that they must report their primary residence and any additional residences. The introductory paragraph of RSA 651-B:4, I is amended to reflect these changes, ensuring that offenders comply with their reporting obligations. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, and is projected to have a minimal fiscal impact of less than $10,000 in each fiscal year from 2025 to 2028.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 502-A:12, 599:1
As Amended by the House: 502-A:12, 599:1
As Amended by the Senate: 502-A:12, 599:1