New Hampshire Senate Bill SB375

New Hampshire 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/17/21
• Refer: 12/17/21
• Report Pass: 2/10/22
• Report Pass: 2/16/22
• Engrossed: 3/23/22
• Refer: 3/23/22
• Report Pass: 4/22/22
• Enrolled: 5/27/22
• Chaptered: 6/8/22
• Passed: 6/8/22

Caption

Relative to requirements for charitable organizations.

Impact

If enacted, SB375 would substantially affect the way charitable organizations report their financial activities to state officials. By prohibiting more stringent state requirements than those outlined in existing law, the bill supports a more predictable regulatory environment for nonprofits. Proponents argue that this will lead to greater efficiency in how charities operate while also enabling them to allocate more resources to their missions rather than administrative overhead. The bill is positioned as a positive step towards fostering a healthier charitable sector within New Hampshire.

Summary

Senate Bill 375 aims to modify the regulatory framework for charitable organizations in New Hampshire. It proposes to prevent state agencies and officials from imposing any filing or reporting requirements that exceed those established in the current state laws governing charitable organizations. This legislative change is designed to reduce the regulatory burden on nonprofits, allowing them to focus on their charitable activities rather than extensive compliance requirements. Specifically, the bill raises the revenue threshold for requiring additional audited financial statements to $2,000,000, simplifying obligations for smaller organizations.

Contention

However, SB375 may face opposition from those concerned that reducing oversight could lead to diminished accountability among charitable organizations. Opponents may argue that without stringent reporting requirements, there might be increased risks of financial mismanagement or fraud within the nonprofit sector. Additionally, there could be concerns about how this bill aligns with federal requirements for transparency and compliance, particularly in scenarios where federal law mandates specific reporting protocols. Therefore, the discussion surrounding SB375 is likely to include a balance between encouraging charitable activities and ensuring adequate oversight to protect public trust.