Bill > HB1593

This bill codifies protections against disability discrimination in New Hampshire by establishing new legal provisions that prohibit excluding or denying benefits to individuals with disabilities in any program or activity receiving state or federal financial assistance. The bill defines "program or activity" broadly, encompassing state and local government agencies, educational institutions, healthcare providers, social service organizations, and other entities receiving financial assistance. It specifies that small providers are not required to make significant structural alterations to facilities if alternative service methods are available, and it adopts employment discrimination standards from the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. The bill provides remedies for individuals who experience discrimination, including the ability to bring civil actions, obtain injunctive or declaratory relief, and potentially receive attorneys' fees. Notably, while the bill allows for various legal remedies, it explicitly excludes compensatory damages. The provisions will take effect on January 1, 2027, and state agencies are required to develop necessary regulations to implement these nondiscrimination protections. The fiscal note indicates that while the bill may have indeterminable expenditure impacts for state and local governments, it is not expected to generate additional revenue.

Justice

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_Status/billinfo.aspx?id=2144&inflect=2