New Hampshire 2022 Regular Session

New Hampshire House Bill HB1084

Introduced
11/2/21  
Refer
11/2/21  

Caption

Relative to disclosure of the sources of legislative bill proposals.

Impact

If enacted, HB 1084 would amend existing laws to insert a new section that specifically addresses the identification of sources for model acts used in legislative proposals. This change will apply to all members of the legislature, requiring them to disclose information about the entities that sponsor or distribute such model acts. The bill outlines a process for third parties to request more information if a source is not disclosed and establishes a framework for ruling on such requests within the legislative committees. Ultimately, this could lead to more informed public discourse about the influences behind legislative decisions and greater public trust in the legislative process.

Summary

House Bill 1084 introduces a critical measure aimed at enhancing transparency within the legislative process. The bill aims to require the identification of the private organizations behind the distribution of model acts that are used by legislators to propose new legislation. By mandating that the source of such model acts be disclosed in the legislation analysis, HB1084 seeks to provide the public with a clearer understanding of who is influencing legislative proposals. This transparency is intended to foster greater accountability in government operations.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1084 appears to lean towards positive, particularly among advocates for governmental transparency and accountability. Supporters see the bill as a necessary step towards demystifying the legislative process, allowing constituents to better understand who is behind the legislation that affects them. However, there might be potential concerns from some legislators who fear that overly stringent disclosure requirements could hinder the legislative process itself or discourage valuable contributions from private organizations to public policy discussions.

Contention

Notably, there may be points of contention regarding how this bill balances the need for transparency with the practicality of legislative procedures. While proponents argue that disclosure enhances the accountability of elected officials and contributes to informed decision-making, detractors may worry that excessive disclosure could lead to unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles or backlash against organizations that aim to influence public policy. Thus, the implementation of HB 1084 may invite debate around the appropriate levels of transparency in government action.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NH HB546

Relative to financial disclosures and the public reporting of those disclosures by the secretary of state.

NH HB1269

Relative to certain legislative study committees.

NH HB1069

Relative to material subject to disclosure under the right-to-know law.

NH HB2120

Relating to forms and disclosures to the Ethics Commission

NH SF905

Reporting disclosure requirement of original sources of campaign funds

NH HB16

Enact the Ethics and Financial Disclosure Reform Act

NH HB141

Relative to campaign disclosures for limited liability companies.

NH H483

Juvenile Justice Legislative Proposals

NH HB1388

Relative to the unsolicited disclosure of an intimate image.

NH S477

Amend Bus. Corp. Act/Bus. Opp. Disclosures

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.