Bill > HB473

This bill expands the existing law on methamphetamine-related crimes to cover all controlled substances, significantly broadening the scope of criminal offenses related to drug exposure and activities in the presence of children or vulnerable adults. The bill changes the chapter title from "Methamphetamine-Related Crimes" to "Controlled Drug-Related Crimes" and modifies definitions to include all controlled substances instead of just methamphetamine. It criminalizes activities such as manufacturing, storing, or disposing of controlled substances, chemical substances, or related paraphernalia in locations where children or vulnerable adults might be present, including homes, school zones, and public accommodations. The legislation also prohibits causing or permitting a child or vulnerable adult to be exposed to, inhale, contact, or ingest controlled substances (with an exception for lawful prescriptions). Law enforcement is now required to take children into protective custody if they are present in areas where these prohibited activities are occurring, and must report such incidents to the Department of Health and Human Services for investigation and potential health screening. The bill will take effect on January 1, 2026, and is expected to have an indeterminable fiscal impact on state and local government systems.

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https://gc.nh.gov/bill_status/legacy/bs2016/bill_status.aspx?lsr=729&sy=2025&sortoption=&txtsessionyear=2025&txtbillnumber=HB473