Bill > HB614

This bill establishes a new legal framework in New Hampshire that empowers courts to provide remedies for violations of state constitutional rights, even when monetary damages are not sought. Specifically, the bill creates a new chapter in state law (Chapter 354-C) that requires New Hampshire courts to remedy constitutional rights violations through various means, including declaratory judgments, nominal damages, and other equitable relief. The law clarifies that these remedies can be awarded under the state constitution, the new statute, common law equitable jurisdiction, or a combination of these sources. Importantly, the bill emphasizes that its provisions should not be interpreted as limiting constitutional rights or available remedies, and it includes a severability clause to ensure that if any part of the law is found invalid, the remaining provisions will still stand. The bill was introduced to ensure that individuals whose state constitutional rights have been violated can seek meaningful legal recourse, even if they cannot prove specific monetary damages. The legislation will take effect 30 days after its passage, and the fiscal note indicates it will have a minimal financial impact of less than $10,000 annually.

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https://gc.nh.gov/bill_status/legacy/bs2016/bill_docket.aspx?lsr=0588&sy=2025&sortoption=&txtsessionyear=2025&txtbillnumber=HB614