This bill establishes a registry of registered agents for businesses in New Hampshire, allowing for better oversight and verification of business formations to prevent fraud. It introduces new requirements for registered agents, stipulating that if the agent is a natural person, they must be at least 18 years old and a resident of New Hampshire. Additionally, if the agent is a business entity, it must be in good standing with the secretary of state. The bill also prohibits businesses from designating commercial postal box providers or similar services as their registered office address. Furthermore, it allows corporations to restate their articles of incorporation and includes provisions for the secretary of state to take necessary measures to prevent fraudulent submissions to the business registry.

The bill includes several key insertions and deletions to current law. Notably, it adds a new section defining the "New Hampshire business registry" and "registered business entity," while also amending existing sections to enhance the secretary of state's powers in verifying business information and preventing unauthorized filings. It establishes penalties for individuals who submit fraudulent information regarding business entities and outlines prohibited actions related to the submission of documents to the secretary of state. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, and is projected to have a minimal fiscal impact of less than $10,000 annually from 2025 to 2028.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 292:7, 293-A:1
As Amended by the House: 292:7, 293-A:1
Version adopted by both bodies: 292:7, 293-A:1