This bill introduces a new section to the New Hampshire Civil Rights Act (RSA 354-B) that establishes a private right of action for individuals who believe their civil rights have been violated. Specifically, it allows any person who has experienced unlawful interference with their rights to file a private lawsuit. Upon filing, the court clerk is required to send a copy of the complaint to the Attorney General, and similarly, any judgment or decree must also be communicated to the Attorney General. This change effectively shifts the ability to initiate civil rights actions from solely the Attorney General to private individuals.

The bill is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, and is expected to have significant fiscal implications. The Department of Justice anticipates an increase in complaints and the need for additional resources to manage the expected rise in private litigation, which may lead to increased expenditures exceeding $222,000 in the first year. The Judicial Branch also notes that while the bill may not significantly increase costs, it could lead to a rise in civil cases in the Superior Court, although the exact number of cases is indeterminable. Overall, the bill aims to empower individuals in civil rights matters while potentially increasing the workload for state agencies involved in enforcement and litigation.