NH
New Hampshire Senate Bill SB254

New Hampshire 2023 Regular Session

New Hampshire Senate Bill SB254

Introduced
1/24/23  
Refer
1/24/23  

Caption

Relative to community-based sentencing alternatives for primary caregivers.

Impact

If enacted, SB 254 would significantly change the legal landscape regarding sentencing in New Hampshire. It allows courts to consider the impact of incarceration on dependents and encourages individualized assessments of potential sentences. With this approach, offenders who are primary caregivers might receive rehabilitative rather than punitive sentences, which proponents believe could lead to better outcomes for families and reduce recidivism as former offenders maintain their responsibilities as caregivers.

Summary

Senate Bill 254 aims to reform the sentencing process for individuals who are primary caregivers for dependents, which include dependent children, elderly individuals, and persons with disabilities. The bill introduces definitions for dependent categories and creates a framework for sentencing courts to exercise discretion in imposing non-prison sentences based on an offender's caregiving responsibilities. The intent is to focus on community rehabilitation and supporting the family unit over punitive measures for those who are not deemed dangerous to the community.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 254 appears to be largely supportive, especially among advocacy groups focused on family welfare and restorative justice. Supporters argue that it facilitates a more humane and effective approach to sentencing that acknowledges the realities of caregiving and the implications of incarceration on families. However, there may be opposition from those who believe that the law could be exploited by offenders who might downplay their dangerousness to gain lenient sentences.

Contention

Notable points of contention include concerns regarding the adequacy of assessments to determine if an offender poses a danger to the community and how to balance public safety with the support of family units. There is also discussion about the need for accompanying resources and programs that would ensure the success of rehabilitation-focused sentences. Critics may argue over the practicalities of implementing such individualized assessments and the potential for judicial discretion to vary widely across cases.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NH HB1039

Relative to alternative sentencing for primary caregivers.

NH SB01233

An Act Establishing Community-based Sentencing Alternatives For Primary Caretakers Of Dependent Children And Other Eligible Caretakers.

NH HB264

Provides relative to community-based sentencing alternatives for offenses committed by primary caretakers (RE1 SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)

NH HB94

In sentencing, providing for alternative sentencing for primary caretakers.

NH SB00886

An Act Establishing Community-based Sentencing Alternatives For Primary Caretakers Of Dependent Children.

NH LD246

An Act to Establish the Option of Sentencing Alternatives for Primary Caregivers

NH LD1516

An Act to Establish Alternative Sentencing for Primary Caregivers

NH HB05933

An Act Establishing Community-based Sentencing Alternatives For Primary Caretakers.

NH SB573

In sentencing, providing for alternative sentencing for primary caretakers and further providing for contents of presentence report; and, in medical services, establishing the Maternity Medical Services Program; and making editorial changes.

NH SB274

In sentencing, providing for alternative sentencing for primary caretakers and further providing for contents of presentence report; and, in medical services, establishing the Maternity Medical Services Program; and making editorial changes.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.