This bill introduces a new section to RSA 159, specifically section 159:19-b, which prohibits the carrying of firearms in designated safe school zones. Under this legislation, any individual who knowingly carries a firearm in these areas will be committing a class A misdemeanor. However, there are specific exceptions to this rule: individuals picking up or dropping off students may have a firearm in their vehicle if it is unloaded and secured; those who receive written authorization from the school board or its designee to possess a firearm; and duly appointed law enforcement officers, trained school resource officers, or members of the armed services on duty are exempt from this prohibition.

The bill does not include any deletions from current law but adds significant new legal language regarding the possession of firearms in safe school zones. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage. The fiscal impact of the bill is indeterminable, as it may affect the judicial and correctional systems, potentially influencing costs related to prosecution, incarceration, probation, and parole for the state and local governments.