Legislative audit finds New Hampshire Human Rights Commission slow and understaffed; lawmakers press for fixes

A legislative performance audit presented to the House Judiciary Committee found the New Hampshire Commission for Human Rights was “inefficient and ineffective” at investigating complaints and closing cases, taking an average of 840 days (about 2.3 years) to close cases in fiscal 2023.

The finding, delivered by Legislative Budget Assistant staff, came as lawmakers and agency leaders discussed a 25-observation report that recommended administrative rule changes, new policies, improved data controls and a case-management system to shorten investigation timelines and increase transparency.

John Clinch, senior audit manager with the Legislative Budget Assistant’s office, told the committee the audit covered state fiscal years 2020 through 2023 and included 25 observations with recommendations. “We found the commission was inefficient and ineffective in investigating complaints and closing cases in a timely manner,” Clinch said. The report shows the commission fully concurred with 24 observations and concurred in part with one; two recommendations (numbers 10 and 13 in the report) may require legislative action.

Why it matters: The commission enforces state anti‑discrimination laws and serves complainants who often lack the resources to pursue court litigation. Committee members and outside lawyers said delays and unclear procedures reduce access to justice for low‑income residents and risk shifting caseload into superior court.

Key findings and agency response

The audit said the commission lacked accurate caseload data, comprehensive administrative rules and adequate…