What it does (key provisions):
- Repeals the bail magistrate system and returns first-appearance bail decisions to judges.
- Requires hold-until-arraignment for people charged with specified serious offenses (no release by commissioners).
- Lowers the detention standard for denying bail in serious cases from “clear and convincing evidence” to “probable cause” regarding dangerousness; adds presumptions for repeat FTA/violations.
- Effective date: September 21, 2025 (180 days after the Governor’s signature on Mar. 25, 2025).
Status & votes (2025 session):
- Passed House (204–175) on Mar. 13; passed Senate 24–0 on Mar. 20; signed by Gov. Kelly Ayotte on Mar. 25.
Support & opposition (at a glance):
- Supporters (Governor, many in law enforcement): argue rollback is needed to prevent reoffending and close “catch-and-release.”
- Opponents (ACLU-NH, civil-liberties advocates): warn of expanded pretrial detention and due-process harms.
Official Bill Page (NH General Court)
https://gc.nh.gov/bill_Status/billinfo.aspx?id=804
https://gc.nh.gov/bill_status/legacy/bs2016/billText.aspx?sy=2025&id=804&txtFormat=html
Additional sources (for context and summaries)
- New Hampshire Bulletin coverage as the bill advanced and passed.
- Governor’s Office signing announcement (Mar. 25, 2025).
- FastDemocracy bill record (shows chaptering and effective date).
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