The proposed bill establishes the State Intelligence and Counter-Intelligence Office within the Department of Safety, aimed at addressing increasing threats from foreign adversaries, including nations like China and Russia, as well as terrorist organizations and cartels. The office will consist of 3 to 5 analysts and 2 to 5 investigators, all of whom must have military or equivalent training in intelligence and counter-intelligence. The office will have the authority to conduct investigations, analyze threats, and coordinate with federal agencies, while also maintaining independent authority to ensure objectivity. The bill includes provisions for the office to subpoena records, provide quarterly briefings to the New Hampshire legislature, and develop independent state-level intelligence capabilities.

To support the establishment and operation of this office, the bill appropriates $6,000,000 from the general fund for the biennium ending June 30, 2027. This funding will cover salaries, benefits, training, equipment, and operational costs. The bill also outlines that any unexpended funds will remain available for future fiscal years. However, concerns have been raised regarding potential duplication of efforts with existing entities, such as the New Hampshire Information and Analysis Center (NHIAC), which already provides intelligence sharing and analysis capabilities. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.