This bill modifies the liability standards for governmental units regarding negligence that results in personal injury or property damage. It repeals and reenacts RSA 507-B:2, which now allows governmental units to be held liable for damages caused by their officials or employees acting within the scope of their authority, with specific provisions for bodily injury and property damage. The bill increases the liability limits from $325,000 to $475,000 per claimant and from $1 million to $1.425 million per incident, or the proceeds from any insurance policy, whichever is greater. Additionally, it clarifies that the provisions do not apply to claims based on acts of employees exercising due care or performing discretionary functions.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that political subdivisions must indemnify employees for negligent conduct resulting in personal injury or property damage, provided the actions were within the scope of their employment and not wanton or reckless. This change aims to protect employees from personal financial loss due to claims arising from their official duties. The bill also allows governmental units to procure insurance or participate in pooled risk management, ensuring that liability is determined similarly to that of private corporations, with specified limits on coverage. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2027.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 507-B:4, 507-B:7-a, 31:105
HB1064 text: 507-B:4, 507-B:7-a, 31:105