NH
New Hampshire House Bill CACR22
New Hampshire 2026 Regular Session
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New Hampshire 2026 Regular Session

New Hampshire House Bill CACR22

Introduced
12/1/25  
Refer
12/1/25  
Report DNP
2/2/26  

Caption

Relating to the compensation of the legislature. Providing that the present compensation per elected term for legislators is hereby abolished.

Impact

Should CACR22 be enacted, it would significantly impact the constitutional provisions regarding legislative compensation. The abolishment of set compensation could lead to an unrestricted structure, allowing future legislatures to determine their compensation without constitutional constraints. This reform could introduce variability in compensation based on factors such as economic conditions or budgetary constraints, potentially influencing the recruitment and retention of legislative members.

Summary

CACR22 proposes a constitutional amendment to abolish the current compensation structure for legislators in New Hampshire. Specifically, the bill seeks to eliminate the fixed amounts per elected term, which currently stand at $250 for presiding officers and $200 for other members of the legislature. This change aims to alter how legislative compensation is dictated within the state constitution and will require voter approval during the general election set for November 2026. If passed, it would amend Article 15 of the constitution, changing the financial framework under which elected officials operate.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding CACR22 appears to be mixed among legislators and constituents. Supporters argue that abolishing fixed compensation could lead to a more flexible and adaptive approach to legislative pay, potentially making it more responsive to the state’s fiscal health. Conversely, opponents express concerns regarding the implications of removing fixed compensation, seeing it as a way to make legislative positions less appealing and possibly deterring qualified individuals from running for office due to uncertainty in financial remuneration.

Contention

A key point of contention centers around the implications of this amendment on the principle of accountability in governance. Critics argue that abolishing compensation without clearly defined replacement policies could lead to a lack of transparency and fairness in legislative pay structures. Additionally, the need for voter approval highlights the democratic process involved in altering constitutional provisions, indicating that public sentiment and opinion will play a crucial role in the bill's future.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NH CACR6

Relating to the right to compute. Providing that the right of individuals to use computation resources shall not be infringed.

NH CACR7

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.

NH HB534

Relative to the calculation of average final compensation under the retirement system.

NH CACR2

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.

NH CACR3

Relating to recall elections. Providing that the general court may authorize recall elections.

NH SB181

Relative to workers' compensation for firefighters with cancer.

NH HB612

Enabling the division of motor vehicles to create a temporary traditional driver's license for youth operators about to turn 21 and relative to requiring employers to provide certain information regarding cost sharing to employees receiving workers' compensation benefit and relative to declaring the third week in September to be New Hampshire service dog week.

NH HB312

Relative to the right of intercollegiate student-athletes to earn compensation through the use of their name, image, or likeness.

NH CACR1

Relating to the governor. Providing that there be a lieutenant governor who shall assume the duties of the governor if the governor is incapacitated.

NH HB299

Relative to the award of attorneys' fees and costs in workers' compensation claims.

Similar Bills

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TX HJR98

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HI SB1225

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