New Hampshire bill mandates federal data reporting by Attorney General for transparency

On January 22, 2025, the New Hampshire Legislature introduced House Bill 640-FN, a significant piece of legislation aimed at enhancing transparency regarding federal law enforcement activities within the state. The bill mandates that the New Hampshire Attorney General request data from federal agencies operating in the state and publish this information on a publicly accessible, searchable website. This initiative seeks to address concerns about accountability and oversight of federal law enforcement operations.

Key provisions of the bill include the requirement for the Attorney General to issue quarterly summaries that identify compliance levels of federal agencies and to notify the state's congressional delegation in cases of non-compliance. Additionally, an annual report must be submitted to the State-Federal Relations and Veterans Affairs Committee, detailing participation rates, program effectiveness, and recommendations for improvement.

The Department of Justice has indicated that the implementation of this bill will necessitate additional staffing, including one investigative paralegal, one legal assistant, and a part-time attorney. The estimated fiscal impact for the first three years of implementation is projected to be approximately $230,750 in FY 2026, $232,750 in FY 2027, and $240,000 in FY 2028. These costs will cover salaries, benefits, and operational expenses related to the new positions and the maintenance of the searchable website.

While the bill is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, the Department of Justice anticipates that the new positions will need to be filled by July 1, 2025, to ensure adequate training and operational readiness.

The introduction of House Bill 640-FN has sparked discussions regarding its implications for state-federal relations and the potential burden on state resources. Proponents argue that increased transparency will foster greater accountability among federal agencies, while critics express concerns about the financial implications and the feasibility of the proposed data collection and reporting requirements.

As the legislative process unfolds, stakeholders will be closely monitoring the bill's progress, potential amendments, and the broader impact on law enforcement oversight in New Hampshire.