Bill > HB1261

This bill revises the Administrative Procedure Act, making numerous technical and procedural modifications to how state agencies develop, file, and implement administrative rules. The bill updates definitions, clarifies rulemaking procedures, and establishes more precise requirements for filing notices, forms, and rules. Key changes include expanding the definition of terms like "file," "signature," and "form," modifying the role of the Joint Legislative Committee on Administrative Rules in reviewing proposed rules, and creating more streamlined processes for agencies to amend forms, incorporate references, and repeal existing rules. The bill also introduces more specific requirements for public notice, hearings, and comment periods, and provides more detailed guidelines for agencies when proposing and adopting rules. These changes aim to improve the transparency, efficiency, and accountability of the administrative rulemaking process in New Hampshire. The bill will take effect on January 1, 2027, giving agencies and legislative services ample time to prepare for the new procedures.

Government Affairs

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_Status/billinfo.aspx?id=1635&inflect=2