This bill aims to enhance the enforcement of criminal restitution obligations in New Hampshire by introducing several key reforms. It mandates annual financial reevaluations of offenders' ability to pay restitution, allowing for adjustments to payment schedules based on any increases in financial capacity. The bill also establishes additional enforcement mechanisms for noncompliance, such as wage garnishment and interception of tax refunds, and imposes penalties for intentional nonpayment, including interest on unpaid balances. Furthermore, it requires the Department of Corrections to provide timely notifications to victims regarding payment statuses and any changes in the restitution process.

Significant changes to existing law include the repeal and reenactment of RSA 651:64, III, which now requires the Department of Corrections to conduct mandatory financial reevaluations and adjust payment schedules accordingly. The bill also stipulates that restitution payments must be disbursed to victims within 45 days of receipt and extends restitution obligations to the estates of offenders when appropriate. The provisions of this act are remedial and will apply to both current and future restitution orders, ensuring that all victims benefit from these enhancements. The bill is set to take effect on June 1, 2027.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 651:64, 651:67
As Amended by the House: 651:64
Version adopted by both bodies: 651:64
HB1576 text: 651:64, 651:67