This bill amends the structure and responsibilities of the New Hampshire Commission on Native American Affairs. It establishes that the commission will consist of seven members who are residents of New Hampshire and enrolled in recognized tribes, specifically the Abenaki or other Native Americans. The bill stipulates that only enrolled tribal citizens nominated by the chiefs of state-recognized Abenaki or federally recognized tribes can serve on the commission. The speaker of the house will appoint these members for a four-year term, and provisions are included to fill any vacancies that arise. Additionally, the bill specifies that tribal chiefs and their immediate family members are ineligible to serve to prevent conflicts of interest.

The commission's duties are expanded to include reviewing and studying issues relevant to Native Americans in New Hampshire, making recommendations for state recognition of the Abenaki, and assisting tribes with various social services and cultural preservation efforts. The commission is required to meet at least four times a year and will submit an annual report of its activities and recommendations starting November 1, 2026. The bill also clarifies that the commission's functions do not grant any special rights or privileges to Native Americans beyond those conferred by federal law. The effective date of the act is upon its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 12-A:14-a