Committee hears bill to improve military-civilian notification for military protective-order violations

Representative Terry Roy introduced HB 1366 on behalf of the Department of War and state military affiliates, saying the bill would require civilian law enforcement, when they have probable cause to believe a service member violated a military protective order (MPO), to notify specified military authorities so commanders can take administrative or UCMJ action.

Kevin Grady, representing state veterans organizations, said the bill "really improves on the work that was done last year by House Bill 62" and stressed the importance of civilian-military relationships because most New Hampshire service members live off base. Melissa Willette, New England regional liaison for the Department of War, explained NCIC and CJIS policy context: MPOs are uploaded to NCIC, but CJIS policy currently does not require 'hit confirmation' for MPOs unless an agency takes official action. HB 1366 creates a framework that would encourage notification and coordination to support victims and accountability.

Major Ryan Ollis, associate general counsel for the New Hampshire Army and Air National Guard, requested a technical amendment to permit the general counsel or a designee to be contacted when commanders must be notified. He emphasized that the bill does not change the enforceability of MPOs off military status but would empower commanders to take appropriate administrative or disciplinary steps when the subject is in military status.

Committee members asked clarifying questions; no final vote on HB 1366 appears in the transcript excerpt provided.