This bill amends the existing law on interference with custody by introducing new provisions that specifically address actions taken with the intent to disrupt lawful custody of a child under 18 years of age. The new language inserted into RSA 633:4 includes a definition of the offense, stating that a person commits an offense if they knowingly entice or persuade a child to leave the custody of their other parent, guardian, or a person lawfully acting in that capacity. The bill establishes a tiered penalty system, where a first or second violation is classified as a civil violation with a fine of $500, while a third or subsequent violation escalates to a class B felony. Additionally, any violation involving the removal of a child from New Hampshire without consent or in violation of a court order is also classified as a class B felony.

The bill also includes a provision for its effective date, which is set for January 1, 2027. The fiscal impact of the bill is noted as indeterminable for both state and local governments, as it may affect the judicial and correctional systems, potentially influencing costs related to prosecution, incarceration, probation, and parole. The bill does not anticipate any revenue generation, and the appropriations required to cover the costs associated with its implementation are also marked as zero.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 633:4
As Amended by the House: 633:4