This bill establishes a private right of action for individuals who have experienced civil rights violations under the New Hampshire Civil Rights Act (RSA 354-B). The new section, 354-B:2-a, allows any person subjected to unlawful interference with their rights to file a lawsuit. The bill stipulates that individuals can seek damages, with a minimum recovery of $10,000 or actual damages, whichever is greater. In cases where the violation is found to be willful or knowing, damages may be awarded at two to three times the amount. Additionally, the bill ensures that prevailing plaintiffs can recover attorney's fees and costs, and it allows for injunctive relief without the need for a bond.

The bill also mandates that upon the initiation of a lawsuit, the court clerk must notify the Attorney General by mailing a copy of the complaint, and similarly, any judgment or decree must also be sent to the Attorney General. This change shifts the authority to file civil rights actions from solely the Attorney General to private individuals, potentially increasing the number of complaints received by the Attorney General's Office. The fiscal impact of this bill is indeterminable, but it is expected to require additional resources for the Department of Justice to handle the anticipated increase in litigation and compliance monitoring. The bill is set to take effect on January 1, 2026.