New Hampshire 2026 Regular Session

New Hampshire House Bill HB1046

Introduced
11/7/25  
Refer
11/7/25  
Report Pass
2/3/26  

Caption

Enabling a person to carry a firearm on a snowmobile being operated on private property.

Impact

The impact of HB 1046 on state laws revolves around the reinterpretation of firearm carrying restrictions related to snowmobiles. By explicitly defining the circumstances under which carrying a firearm is permissible on private property, the bill seeks to support individual gun rights while still maintaining some level of control in specific use cases, such as public trails and designated snowmobile corridors. This change could influence similar statutes concerning firearms and recreational vehicles, potentially prompting further legislative discussions on firearm accessibility and usage.

Summary

House Bill 1046 aims to amend existing regulations surrounding the carrying of firearms on snowmobiles operated on private property. The key provision of the bill is to allow individuals to carry a loaded firearm on a snowmobile when under the express or implied permission of the property owner. This represents a significant shift from the current law, which prohibits carrying a loaded firearm on snowmobiles, thereby enhancing the rights of gun owners in outdoor recreational contexts.

Sentiment

The sentiment related to HB 1046 appears to be mixed, reflecting broader societal debates about gun rights and public safety. Proponents of the bill may view it as a reinforcement of Second Amendment rights, asserting that responsible gun owners should have the freedom to carry their firearms while participating in recreational activities like snowmobiling. Conversely, critics might express concerns that loosening restrictions on firearm carry in recreational settings poses risks to public safety, particularly regarding accidents or unintended discharges.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 1046 include concerns about the potential for increased firearm-related incidents in recreational areas and the implications for property owners who may not wish for firearms to be present on their land. Furthermore, discussions around the definitions of 'unloaded' firearms and the scope of permissions granted to snowmobile operators can stir debate regarding the adequacy of safety measures. As such, the bill may ignite discussions not only about gun rights but also about property rights and community safety.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NH HB150

Enabling homestead operations to use commercial kitchen equipment in preparing food for sale.

NH HB554

Clarifying the placement of advertising signs on state-owned property.

NH HB710

Enabling electric utilities to own, operate, and offer advanced nuclear resources, and relative to purchased power agreements for electric distribution utilities and limitations on community customer generators.

NH HB766

Enabling municipalities to adopt an exemption from the local education property tax for certain elderly residents.

NH SB89

Enabling non-citizens who are legally authorized to work in the United States to deliver alcohol.

NH HB513

Allowing the department of transportation to execute a right-of-way use agreement, subject to Federal Highway Administration approval, for snowmobile operation along Interstate 89 in the town of Sutton, from NH Route 114, traveling south for one mile.

NH HB689

Enabling municipalities to adopt a volunteer incentive property tax credit.

NH SB235

Enabling funds from the Pitman-Robertson Act to be spent by the fish and game department on threatened and endangered species in New Hampshire and allowing the fish and game department to collect donations at sites approved by the executive director.

NH SB214

Enabling no-excuse absentee registration and voting.

NH SB105

Enabling towns to adopt budget caps.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.