This bill establishes a legislative commission on municipal association oversight, specifically targeting the New Hampshire Municipal Association (NHMA), which is a private nonprofit corporation funded primarily through municipal dues. The commission aims to ensure transparency and accountability regarding NHMA's use of public funds, as it currently operates without oversight or reporting obligations despite its significant influence on public policy. The commission will consist of seven voting members, including representatives from both the New Hampshire House and Senate, as well as public and municipal members, and will be responsible for reviewing NHMA's financial statements, requiring detailed expenditure reports, and holding public hearings.
The bill outlines specific powers and duties for the commission, including the authority to suspend NHMA's lobbying activities if it fails to comply with reporting requirements. If NHMA does not submit the required reports within 90 days after the close of its fiscal year, it will be prohibited from engaging in lobbying until compliance is achieved. Additionally, the commission can issue suspension orders for up to one year if NHMA is found to be noncompliant or acting against the interests of its member municipalities. The act will take effect 60 days after its passage.