This bill amends RSA 570-A:2, II by adding a new subparagraph (n) that permits individuals to record or possess recordings of conversations in which they are a party, or for which they have prior explicit consent from a party, under specific conditions. The recording must be intended for submission to law enforcement or for use in court proceedings, and it should not be publicly disclosed. Additionally, the recording must contain evidence of what the individual reasonably believes to be a crime. Notably, this provision excludes law enforcement officers acting in their official capacity from being able to provide consent for such recordings.

The bill is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, and it is expected to have indeterminable fiscal impacts on state and local governments, particularly concerning expenditures related to the judicial and correctional systems. The bill does not anticipate any revenue generation and outlines that the costs associated with prosecution, incarceration, probation, and parole may be affected due to the changes in legal recording practices.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 570-A:2
As Amended by the House: 570-A:2