This bill amends RSA 570-A:2, II by adding a new subparagraph (n) that permits individuals to record 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 court proceedings and cannot be publicly disclosed. Additionally, the recording must contain evidence of what the individual reasonably believes to be a crime. This change aims to facilitate the use of one-party audio and video recordings in legal contexts, enhancing the ability of citizens to assist law enforcement.
The bill will take effect on January 1, 2026, and is expected to have indeterminable fiscal impacts on state and local expenditures due to potential changes in the judicial and correctional systems. The bill does not project any revenue changes and has been reviewed by various agencies, including the Judicial Branch and the Department of Justice, to assess its implications.
Statutes affected: Introduced: 570-A:2
As Amended by the House: 570-A:2