NH
New Hampshire House Bill CACR27
New Hampshire 2026 Regular Session
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New Hampshire 2026 Regular Session

New Hampshire House Bill CACR27

Introduced
12/2/25  
Refer
12/2/25  

Caption

Relating to the authority to establish courtsProvided that the sole authority lies within the general court.

Impact

If enacted, CACR27 would revise Article 4 of the New Hampshire Constitution to assert that the general court retains full power and authority over the establishment of all judicial entities. This change may lead to significant adjustments in how courts operate and are constituted within the state. Furthermore, the amendment mandates that the proposed changes be submitted to voters in the upcoming 2026 general election, emphasizing its foundational constitutional nature and the democratic involvement required for such amendments.

Summary

CACR27 is a proposed constitutional amendment in New Hampshire that seeks to clarify and expand the authority of the general court to establish courts. It specifically removes the existing exception that allows for other provisions, currently outlined in Article 72-a, to interfere with the general court's power to erect and constitute various types of courts. By doing so, the amendment aims to consolidate judicial authority under the general court, effectively eliminating any exceptions regarding the establishment of judicial systems within the state.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding CACR27 appears to be a discussion point among legislators, as it touches upon fundamental issues of governance and the allocation of judicial powers. Proponents of the amendment may argue that a consistent framework for establishing courts is necessary for administrative clarity, while opponents might voice concerns about the implications for judicial diversity and localized governance. The debate likely reflects broader themes regarding centralization of power versus local authority.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding what the removal of the exception entails for existing courthouses and judicial practices that may operate under different frameworks. Critics could argue that this consolidation might limit specialized courts or alternative judicial structures that address specific community needs. As such, the amendment could evoke strong opinions regarding the balance of judicial authority and the flexibility needed to adapt to local conditions and current legal challenges.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NH CACR3

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

NH HB188

Relative to contempt of the general court.

NH SB56

Relative to consolidating the New Hampshire health and education facilities authority within the business finance authority.

NH HR8

Resolving that the practice of suspending a constitutional officer to be outside the authority designated to the judiciary and appropriately delegated to the general court.

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 HB609

Relative to the general court's authority over the sale, purchase, ownership, use, possession, transportation, licensing, permitting, taxation, and other matter pertaining to firearms, stun guns, Tasers, pepper spray devices, knives and other self-defense tools.

NH HB511

Relative to cooperation with federal immigration authorities.

NH SB71

Relative to cooperation with federal immigration authorities.

NH HB110

Authorizing counties to establish revolving fund accounts.

NH SB152

Authorizing the sale of toll credits to fund a newly established noise barrier construction fund for the design and construction of noise barrier projects.

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