Bill > HB1185

This bill redefines the criminal offense of endangering the welfare of a child or incompetent by establishing clear legal standards and penalties for different levels of endangerment. Under the new law, a person who owes a duty of care to a child under 18 or an incompetent individual can be charged with a crime if they negligently or knowingly expose that person to a substantial and unjustifiable risk of serious bodily injury or death. The bill establishes graduated penalties based on the severity and intent of the offense: negligent endangerment is a class A misdemeanor, knowing endangerment is a class B felony, and a second or subsequent offense is automatically a class B felony. Additionally, if the negligent conduct results in serious bodily injury or death, the offense becomes a class A felony. The bill aims to provide a more comprehensive legal framework for protecting vulnerable populations by creating clearer definitions and more stringent consequences for those who fail in their caregiving responsibilities. The new law will take effect on January 1, 2027, allowing time for legal professionals and law enforcement to prepare for its implementation.

Justice

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_Status/billinfo.aspx?id=1905&inflect=2