This bill introduces a new section to RSA 541-A, establishing standards for the review of state agency interpretations. Specifically, it mandates that courts and administrative officers must not defer to state agencies' interpretations of statutes, regulations, or subregulatory documents. Instead, they are required to interpret these documents de novo, meaning they will make their own interpretations without relying on the agency's views. Additionally, in cases involving state agencies, any remaining doubts after applying standard interpretation methods must be resolved in a manner that limits agency power and enhances individual liberty.

The bill aims to enhance judicial oversight of state agency actions by ensuring that interpretations are made independently and with a bias towards limiting agency authority. The new legal language inserted into the law emphasizes the importance of individual rights in the face of state agency power, while the existing language that allows for deference to agency interpretations is effectively removed. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2027.