This bill amends the compensation structure for jurors in New Hampshire to align with the federal rate, specifically referencing the rate established by 28 U.S.C. section 1871. The current law stipulates that jurors are paid $10 for each half day's attendance, which will be replaced with the federal daily rate of $50 for each day's attendance. Additionally, the bill removes the distinction between half-day and full-day payments, thereby simplifying the compensation process. The mileage reimbursement remains at $0.20 per mile for travel to and from the court.

The fiscal impact of this bill is significant, with an estimated increase in state General Fund expenditures projected to exceed $370,000 in FY 2027 and more than $740,000 in FY 2028 and FY 2029. Currently, jurors are compensated at a much lower rate, resulting in a substantial increase in costs when transitioning to the federal rate. The Judicial Branch has indicated that the bill will lead to an indeterminable increase in expenditures, particularly as the number of jurors and juror-days varies each year. The bill is set to take effect on January 1, 2027.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 500-A:15
HB1592 text: 500-A:15