This bill amends RSA 374:59 to introduce new definitions related to area codes in New Hampshire, specifically defining "overlay area codes" as additional area codes assigned to the same geographic area as an existing area code, and "geographic split" as the division of an existing area code into multiple geographic areas, each with a new area code. The bill mandates that the Department of Energy begin planning for the introduction of an additional overlay area code that would encompass the entire state, similar to the original 603 area code. Importantly, it stipulates that no residents will be required to change their existing phone numbers during this process.

The bill also includes a provision that the Department of Energy must collaborate with the administrators of the North American Numbering Plan to facilitate the introduction of one or more new area codes. The act is set to take effect 60 days after its passage, and according to the Office of Legislative Budget Assistant, it is projected to have no fiscal impact on state, county, or local expenditures or revenue.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 374:59