This bill introduces several significant changes to existing laws in New Hampshire. Firstly, it establishes a procedure for conducting discretionary background checks prior to the return of firearms and ammunition in court proceedings. Specifically, it allows courts to 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 indicates that the individual is prohibited from possessing firearms, the court must provide a detailed explanation and allow the individual to appeal the decision. Additionally, the bill invalidates out-of-state driver's licenses issued exclusively to undocumented immigrants, stating that such licenses do not authorize operation of a vehicle in New Hampshire. It also mandates that the Department of Safety maintain a list of invalid licenses on its website.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the requirements for school building aid projects by increasing the threshold for when an owner's project manager must be engaged from $1,000,000 to $1,250,000. It also includes a provision that the project manager must have comprehensive liability and professional liability coverage to protect the interests of the project owner. The effective date for the firearms background check provisions is set for January 1, 2026, while the remainder of the bill will take effect 60 days after its passage.

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
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 263:1, 263:77, 198:15-c