New Hampshire 2026 Regular Session

New Hampshire House Bill HB1793

Introduced
12/17/25  
Refer
12/17/25  
Report Pass
1/22/26  
Report DNP
1/22/26  
Refer
2/5/26  
Engrossed
2/9/26  
Refer
2/9/26  
Report Pass
4/30/26  

Caption

Prohibiting public colleges and universities from regulating the possession or carrying of certain weapons on campus and establishing a committee to study the feasibility of allowing guns on campuses of public institutions of higher education.

Impact

The implementation of HB 1793 could have significant ramifications for public institutions in New Hampshire. It effectively dismantles existing policies that may ban firearms on campuses, allowing students, staff, and visitors to carry firearms freely. This shift is expected to pose challenges related to campus safety, insurance liabilities, and the overall risk management of schools as they would have to adjust to a new legal landscape without the ability to enforce prior restrictions against weapons on campus.

Summary

House Bill 1793, referred to as the 'Protecting College Students Act', seeks to prohibit public colleges and universities in New Hampshire from regulating the possession or carrying of firearms and non-lethal weapons on their campuses. By asserting the constitutional right of individuals to bear arms, the bill argues that existing institutional policies restricting such rights are inconsistent with New Hampshire's Constitution. Additionally, it allows individuals harmed by such restrictions to sue for damages and seek injunctive relief, thereby expanding their legal recourse.

Contention

Debate surrounding HB 1793 reveals stark divisions in opinion regarding campus safety and student rights. Proponents argue that allowing responsible individuals to carry firearms enhances personal safety and acts as a deterrent against potential violence. Conversely, critics express concern that the presence of weapons will heighten the risk of accidental injuries and defensive situations, compromising the safety of students and staff. Institutions may face increased legal and financial burdens due to potential liabilities stemming from accidents or violence associated with the carrying of firearms on campus.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NH HB677

Relative to the possession and use of epinephrine at recreation camps, schools, and institutions of higher education.

NH HB510

Relative to establishing certain due process rights for students, student organizations, and faculty members facing disciplinary actions by state institutions of higher learning.

NH SB57

Establishing a study committee to analyze reducing the number of school administrative units and establishing a commission to study the costs of special education.

NH HB207

Relative to repealing the prohibition on the possession or sale of blackjacks, slung shots, and metallic knuckles except by or to minors.

NH SB226

Suspending applications for new landfills and establishing a committee to study the feasibility of incinerating solid waste.

NH SB24

Allowing students under age 21 to taste wine in educational settings.

NH HB352

Prohibiting possession of a firearm at a polling place.

NH SB248

Establishing a committee to study palliative and hospice care in New Hampshire.

NH HB157

Establishing a study committee to examine ways to improve the usefulness of fiscal notes.

NH HB71

Prohibiting the school facilities to be used to provide shelter for aliens, relative to department of health and human services contracts, requiring the use of public notices before re-assessment of property values for tax purposes, and relative to construction of a public pier on Hampton Beach and making an appropriation therefor.

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CA AB2771

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