New Hampshire 2025 Regular Session

New Hampshire Senate Bill SB45

Introduced
1/9/25  
Refer
1/9/25  
Report Pass
2/5/25  
Engrossed
3/28/25  
Refer
3/28/25  

Caption

Clarifying the placement of advertising signs on state-owned property.

Impact

The impact of SB45 extends to state laws governing advertising practices, particularly during election periods. By establishing clear guidelines regarding where political signs can be placed and the responsibilities for candidates regarding their removal, the bill seeks to mitigate clutter and confusion in public areas. This law will enforce stricter accountability for maintaining the condition of public property during and after elections, aligning with broader efforts to promote organized political campaigning and community aesthetics.

Summary

Senate Bill 45 is legislation aimed at clarifying the regulations surrounding the placement and removal of advertising signs, particularly political signs, on state-owned property in New Hampshire. The bill specifies that no advertising, including political advertising, can be affixed to any state-owned property without the proper consent. Notably, it allows for exceptions on state-owned rights-of-way given that such placements do not obstruct traffic or violate any other applicable laws. This aims to streamline how political advertising is handled in public spaces, maintaining the integrity of the property and ensuring safety.

Contention

During discussions surrounding SB45, there were considerations regarding the balance between freedom of expression and regulation. Supporters argue that the bill is essential for preventing visual clutter and ensuring public safety, while critics may view it as a potential hindrance to political expression. Contention may arise over the interpretation of consent needed for placing advertising, as well as who will bear the responsibility and potential costs associated with the removal and maintenance of political signs prior to and following elections.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NH HB1092

Creating a period for the placing of and removal of political advertising on public property.

NH HB286

Relative to the removal of political advertising.

NH HB590

Allowing the removal of political advertisements containing a candidate's name and which appear to be the candidate's advertising on public property by the candidate.

NH HB1150

Relative to advertising rates for political advertising.

NH HB1091

Relative to the financing of political campaigns.

NH HB1596

Requiring a disclosure of deceptive artificial intelligence usage in political advertising.

NH SB534

Relative to campaign finance.

NH SB417

Relative to out-of-home placements for children.

NH SB445

Establishing a voter-owned elections fund for eligible candidates to executive councilor and making an appropriation to the fund.

NH HB1573

Relative to out-of-home placements for children.

Similar Bills

CA AB476

Outdoor advertising displays: exemptions.

CA AB1143

Outdoor advertising: prohibitions.

NH HB423

Requiring the consent of property owners for the placement of political advertisements on public property abutting their land.

CA SB405

Outdoor advertising displays: exemptions: City of Artesia.

CA SB1488

Outdoor advertising displays: exemptions.

NH HB590

Allowing the removal of political advertisements containing a candidate's name and which appear to be the candidate's advertising on public property by the candidate.

CA AB3214

Public transit: advertising.

CA AB3168

Outdoor advertising displays: publicly owned property.