Bill > HB1257

This bill modifies the residency requirements for state representatives and state senators in New Hampshire by mandating that candidates must have lived in the specific district they wish to represent for at least two years prior to the election. For state representatives, the bill requires that in addition to being at least 18 years old and a state inhabitant for two years, candidates must have been a resident of the specific town, ward, place, or district they seek to represent. Similarly, for state senators, who must be at least 30 years old and a state inhabitant for seven years, the bill adds the requirement of being a district inhabitant for two years preceding the election. If a representative or senator ceases to be an inhabitant of their district after being elected, they will be disqualified from holding office, and a vacancy will be declared. The bill aims to ensure that elected officials have a recent and sustained connection to the specific communities they are representing, potentially increasing local knowledge and accountability. The new residency requirements will take effect immediately upon the bill's passage.

Government Affairs

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_Status/billinfo.aspx?id=1988&inflect=2