This bill prohibits certain public entities from conducting or sponsoring political surveys, polls, or questionnaires in their official capacities. Specifically, it repeals and reenacts RSA 659:44-a to include provisions that define "electioneering" and restrict public employees from using government resources for such activities. The bill explicitly states that no public body or employee may conduct or sponsor surveys related to candidates, political parties, or ballot measures while acting in an official capacity. However, it exempts bona fide academic research conducted independently by institutions of higher education from this prohibition.

Additionally, the bill establishes that any violation of these provisions will result in a misdemeanor charge. The effective date of the act is upon its passage. The fiscal impact of the bill is indeterminable, as it may affect expenditures related to the judicial and correctional systems due to the introduction of criminal penalties. Overall, the bill aims to maintain the integrity of public entities by preventing them from engaging in political activities that could influence voter behavior.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 657:4, 657:6