Bill > HB1740

This bill comprehensively revises New Hampshire's domestic violence protection laws, establishing new standards and processes for protecting individuals from domestic violence. The bill defines "abuse" broadly, including various criminal acts like assault, sexual assault, harassment, and property destruction, and expands the definition of "family or household member" to cover a wide range of relationships. It mandates a robust law enforcement response, requiring officers to thoroughly investigate domestic violence reports, create detailed reports, collect evidence, and forward reports to prosecutors within 24 hours. The bill introduces mandatory arrest procedures, requiring officers to arrest individuals when probable cause exists, with specific documentation requirements. Civil protective orders are now closely linked to criminal proceedings, with petitions only allowed when criminal charges are pending or have resulted in a conviction. The bill also creates a domestic violence law enforcement training and support fund, administered by the Attorney General's office, to provide financial assistance to law enforcement agencies for training, equipment, and best practices in responding to domestic violence cases. Additionally, the bill establishes clear guidelines for temporary and final protective orders, their duration, and enforcement, and provides legal protections for victims, including a presumption of self-defense in certain circumstances. The law will take effect on January 1, 2027, and aims to strengthen victim protection and law enforcement response to domestic violence.

Justice

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_Status/billinfo.aspx?id=1920&inflect=2