relative to local records retention.

HB 164 requires New Hampshire municipalities to store local government records electronically on a publicly accessible website designated by the state archivist, eliminating the need for physical copies if free public access is provided. It creates a funded position for a local government records manager (previously unfilled since 2002) to develop and maintain this website, with $150,000 appropriated for the 2026 fiscal year to cover setup, maintenance, and staffing. The bill directly affects all municipal governments by changing how they manage and provide public access to electronic records, while ensuring transparency through free online access. Key provisions include allowing digital storage without duplicate paper copies and mandating that public bodies provide website links instead of physical records upon request. This policy change streamlines public access to local government records while shifting management responsibilities to the state archives office.