Maddy summaryThis bill proposes creating a permanent, nonpartisan Independent Redistricting Commission in New Hampshire to draw boundaries for all state and federal election districts. The commission would consist of six members selected from a pool of applicants who are not current or recent political officials, ensuring that no member has held specific elected offices or worked for campaigns in the last decade. Members would serve ten-year terms and must follow strict rules regarding campaign contributions and outside communications to maintain neutrality. The commission is tasked with redrawing maps after every federal census using criteria that prioritize population equality, compliance with laws, and the avoidance of partisan bias.
Rep. Connie Lane
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryThis bill updates the definitions used in New Hampshire's campaign finance laws to clarify who and what counts as a candidate, political committee, and political party. It expands the scope of what is considered a contribution and expenditure to include various forms of support, such as personal services, childcare costs for candidates, and specific types of communications across digital and traditional media. The legislation also establishes new rules for creating regional political party committees and provides clearer distinctions between partisan and non-partisan voter activities. By redefining these core terms, the bill aims to modernize how political spending and advocacy are tracked and regulated in the state.
Maddy summaryThis bill establishes an election information portal and allocates funding to support its development and maintenance. It directs $50,000 to the Secretary of State to verify voter qualifications and $450,000 to the Department of State to add the portal to the existing Statewide Voter Registration System. These funds are intended to enhance the system's capabilities for managing voter data and election information. The legislation takes effect immediately upon passing.
Maddy summarySB 537 proposes changes to New Hampshire absentee voting procedures by allowing election officials to open outer envelopes and partially process ballots before Election Day. Under the bill, clerks and moderators could schedule specific times in the three weeks prior to an election to open envelopes, check for errors, and contact voters to fix issues, provided they post public notice at least five days in advance. The legislation also expands the types of reasons a voter can cite on their application to include working on election day or caring for children or infirm adults. Additionally, the bill updates the standard text on return envelopes to clarify that ballots must be sealed in an inner envelope before being placed in the outer return envelope.