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NH committee hears bill to let taxpayers sue over DEI‑related contract violations
Summary
Representative Rich Nelovanko told the House Executive Departments & Administration Committee that HB 17‑88 would add clarifying language to RSA 21‑I and create an enforcement path allowing taxpayers to sue public entities and seek injunctive relief and attorney’s fees; opponents warned of vagueness, impacts on ADA/DD Act obligations and litigation risk.
Representative Rich Nelovanko introduced House Bill 17‑88 to the House Executive Departments and Administration Committee on Jan. 15, saying the measure clarifies definitions in RSA 21‑I and adds enforcement steps for contracts allegedly in violation of that subdivision. "Any taxpayer is entitled to bring a cause of action against any public entity, state agency, or political subdivision that can demonstrably be shown to be in violation of any provision of this subdivision," Nelovanko told the committee, describing the proposal as a "good governance" measure to engage the public.
Why it matters: The bill would give taxpayers a route to court — including injunctive relief…
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