Relating to sheriffs. Providing that there shall be no age limitation for a person to hold the office of county sheriff.
Impact
If passed, CACR11 would significantly impact the eligibility criteria for county sheriffs in the state. It removes a long-standing provision that automatically disqualifies individuals from this office based on age alone. Proponents of the amendment argue that experience and qualifications should take precedence over age, allowing older, potentially more experienced candidates to serve in this critical public safety role. The amendment is also expected to align the state’s laws regarding age restrictions with evolving attitudes towards aging and competency in governance.
Voting
The proposed amendment is set to be presented to voters during the state general election in November 2026. Voters will have the opportunity to decide whether they are in favor of this change through a direct referendum. If approved by a two-thirds majority, CACR11 will become effective upon the governor's proclamation, thereby formally amending the state constitution to allow for sheriffs of any age.
Summary
CACR11 is a constitutional amendment concurrent resolution that proposes the elimination of the age limitation for individuals seeking to hold the office of county sheriff in New Hampshire. Currently, the state's constitution specifies that no person may serve as sheriff after reaching the age of seventy. This amendment would modify Article 78 of the New Hampshire Constitution, removing that age restriction entirely. The intent behind this proposal is to allow for a broader pool of candidates for the position and to reflect a changing societal perspective on age and capability in public service.
Contention
The discussion surrounding CACR11 may evoke a range of opinions among legislators and the public. Supporters posit that older candidates might bring invaluable experience and perspective to the role of sheriff, thereby enhancing law enforcement operations. Critics of the amendment, however, may express concerns regarding the physical demands of the job and whether older individuals can meet those demands effectively. This could raise debates about the suitability of candidates based on age, potentially dividing the opinion of constituents and lawmakers alike.
Relating to voting eligibility. Providing that only legal resident citizens who are at least 18 years of age or older who reside in the place they claim as a domicile shall be eligible voters.
Relating to the drawing of district boundaries. Providing that no district boundaries shall be drawn in a way that favors or disfavors any political party or candidate.
Relating to the presumption of innocence. Providing that in all cases and suits of the state against one of the people, the defendant shall be innocent unless proven guilty.
Proposes temporary constitutional amendment allowing State constitutional convention convened to reform system of property taxation to propose statutory changes.
Proposes temporary constitutional amendment allowing State constitutional convention convened to reform system of property taxation to propose statutory changes.
(Constitutional Amendment) Provides for the election of constitutional convention delegates and vote requirements necessary for the adoption of a new constitution (RR SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)
(Constitutional Amendment) Modifies disposition of certain state revenues through repeal of the Revenue Stabilization Trust Fund and deposits of certain revenue streams into the Budget Stabilization Fund (RRF INCREASE GF RV See Note)
(Constitutional Amendment) Provides relative to the application of state monies to the unfunded accrued liability of the Teachers' Retirement System of La. (EN DECREASE SD RV See Note)
Proposing An Amendment To Article Xvii, Section 3 Of The Hawaii Constitution To Specify That The Standard For Voter Approval Of A Constitutional Amendment Proposed By The Legislature Is A Majority Of All The Votes Tallied Upon The Question.