This bill, HB 506-FN, introduces new procedures for conducting discretionary background checks before the return of firearms and ammunition that have been seized under court orders related to domestic violence or stalking. Specifically, it mandates that courts request a National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) check within two business days of a request for the return of firearms, with a response required within ten business days. If the NICS check reveals that the individual is prohibited from possessing firearms, the court must provide a citation to the relevant statute and allow for an appeals process. Additionally, the bill invalidates out-of-state driver's licenses issued solely to undocumented immigrants, stating that such licenses do not authorize vehicle operation in New Hampshire.

The bill also modifies the requirements for school building aid projects by raising the threshold for when a school district or chartered public school must hire an owner's project manager from $1,000,000 to $1,250,000, while ensuring that the project manager has appropriate insurance coverage. The effective date for the firearms background check provisions is set for January 1, 2026, with the rest of the act taking effect 60 days after passage. Although the bill does not allocate funding for new positions, it is estimated that the Department of Safety will need one additional position to handle the increased workload, costing approximately $92,000 in FY 2026. Furthermore, the bill requires that transcripts for appeals to the Supreme Court be provided at no charge, which may incur significant costs for the Judicial Branch. Overall, the bill aims to enhance safety measures regarding firearms while streamlining administrative processes.

Statutes affected:
As Amended by the Senate: 263:1, 263:77, 198:15-c
Version adopted by both bodies: 263:1, 263:77, 198:15-c