New Hampshire 2024 Regular Session

New Hampshire House Bill HB395

Introduced
1/9/23  
Refer
1/9/23  

Caption

Relative to the voters' guide for constitutional amendments.

Impact

The implications of HB 395 on state laws may be significant as it alters the existing structure surrounding how voters are informed about constitutional amendments. By centralizing the authorship of explanatory statements with a designated legislative committee, the bill could ensure that such statements are consistent across different amendments and better reflect the legislative intent. This shift might improve voter understanding and facilitate more informed decision-making during elections.

Summary

House Bill 395 is a legislative proposal that seeks to modify the current process of drafting voter's guides for constitutional amendments in New Hampshire. The bill delegates the responsibility for writing the text of these guides to the joint legislative committee on administrative rules, which is intended to provide a more standardized and authoritative explanatory statement for voters. This change aims to enhance the clarity and accessibility of information available to voters during elections when constitutional amendments are on the ballot.

Conclusion

In summary, HB 395 represents a pivotal step towards enhancing the electoral process in New Hampshire by potentially improving the quality of information voters receive regarding constitutional amendments. However, it also raises questions about legislative authority and transparency that may need to be addressed as the bill progresses through the legislative process.

Contention

While the bill aims to streamline the process of providing information to voters, it may present points of contention regarding the balance of power and transparency in the legislative process. Critics may argue that moving this responsibility to a committee could lessen the diversity of perspectives and limit input from various stakeholders who traditionally wrote these guides. On the other hand, proponents of the bill may contend that this consolidation is necessary for ensuring that voters receive accurate and balanced information.

Companion Bills

NH HB395

Carry Over Relative to the voters' guide for constitutional amendments.

Previously Filed As

NH HB395

Relative to the voters' guide for constitutional amendments.

NH HB392

Relative to constitutional convention procedures for delegates.

NH HB502

Relative to voter affidavit ballots.

NH SB156

Relative to voter registration and verification of voter identity.

NH CACR8

Relating to a constitutional right to birth control. Providing that the constitution protects the right to access birth control.

NH HB460

Relative to eliminating voter identification exceptions.

NH SB158

Relative to absentee ballot outer envelopes.

NH HB101

Relative to requiring voters declare a party affiliation prior to a state primary election.

NH HB495

Relative to counting votes.

NH HB358

Relative to the filing and adoption of proposed administrative rules and relative to overpayment of unemployment compensation and relative to policies relating to nursing mothers.

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