The Justice Department’s recent workshop intended to enhance negotiation techniques for Freedom of Information Act requests excluded public attendance, raising concerns about transparency. Historically, such sessions included requester input. The evolving focus on internal agency training without public engagement diminishes accountability, highlighting flaws within both federal and New Hampshire’s public records processes.
This article outlines the annulment process for criminal records in New Hampshire, detailing costs, waiting periods, and implications. Annulment, costing around $350, allows individuals to legally deny previous convictions on applications, but arrest records remain permanently accessible. The piece critiques the misleading nature of the term “annulment” in this context.
The ACLU of New Hampshire has filed a lawsuit against the State Police over extensive delays in responding to public records requests related to immigration enforcement. The lawsuit reveals issues with the state’s Right-to-Know Law, which allows indefinite extensions, effectively limiting accountability to only those who can afford legal representation.
Granite State Report (GSR) offers commissioned journalism based on public records and transparency under New Hampshire’s Right-to-Know law. GSR only conducts investigations that serve public interest, disclosing findings to all readers without secrecy. The organization enhances accountability through a structured process, ensuring editorial control and public inclusion in every assignment.
The Right-to-Know Law in New Hampshire (RSA 91-A) differs significantly from the federal Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). RSA 91-A mandates quicker responses from local entities, has constitutional backing, and applies uniformly to all requesters. Proposed changes may restrict access based on residency, threatening openness in public record requests.
Senate Bill 626, advancing in New Hampshire, aims to restrict public records access to state residents, citing concerns over AI-driven data requests. Critics argue this narrows transparency and accountability, potentially excluding out-of-state journalists and organizations. Supporters claim it’s necessary for local governance, framing it as protection rather than restriction.
New Hampshire’s most impactful political decisions occur quietly through budget language, committee votes, and local planning, rather than through major public debates. Issues like housing, education funding, and transparency suffer due to this low visibility, which shapes the state’s economy and governance, threatening affordability and democratic health in the long run.
In 2025, a legal battle has emerged between the Trump administration and New Hampshire over the release of detailed voter registration data. The DOJ argues that federal law mandates access, while New Hampshire cites state confidentiality laws and privacy concerns. The outcome could significantly impact the balance of power in election administration.
Are NH public records really public? A test case. By Granite State Report TL;DR New Hampshire’s Right-to-Know Law (RSA 91-A) promises broad access to public records and meetings. In practice, access depends on where you live, what you’re asking for, and how persistent (or well-resourced) you are. Recent court rulings…
