Bill > HB1032

This bill modifies New Hampshire's right-to-know law (RSA 91-A:2) to create an exception for public body members with disabilities or those caring for a household member with a disability. Specifically, the bill allows such individuals to be counted as "present in person" for quorum purposes even when they cannot physically attend a meeting. The disability must be defined according to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a federal law that protects individuals with disabilities from discrimination. Currently, public body members can only participate remotely if physical attendance is not "reasonably practical" and must state the reason for remote participation in meeting minutes. The new provision ensures that members with disabilities or those caring for disabled household members are not penalized or prevented from participating in public meetings due to their disability status. The bill will take effect 60 days after its passage, providing a brief transition period for public bodies to understand and implement the new rules.

Justice

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_Status/billinfo.aspx?id=1887&inflect=2