New Hampshire 2024 Regular Session

New Hampshire House Bill HB1343

Introduced
12/6/23  
Refer
12/6/23  

Caption

Prohibiting the use by the governor of emergency orders concerning elections procedures without the written consent of the majority and minority leaders of the house of representatives and senate.

Impact

If enacted, HB 1343 would amend existing laws pertaining to the governor's powers during emergencies, particularly in reference to election procedures. This legislation would require the involvement of the legislature in decisions that previously could have been made unilaterally by the governor under emergency conditions. Proponents of the bill are likely to argue that it safeguards democratic processes by ensuring that elected representatives are involved in significant changes to how elections are conducted, thus enhancing legislative accountability.

Summary

House Bill 1343 is a proposed piece of legislation aimed at regulating the authority of the governor regarding emergency orders that modify election procedures. Specifically, the bill stipulates that any changes to New Hampshire's election processes due to a state of emergency must be approved in writing by both the majority and minority leaders of the House of Representatives and the Senate. The bill emphasizes the importance of elections as a fundamental aspect of democracy, suggesting that they should only be altered under strict legislative oversight.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 1343 is expected to reflect a divide between those who prioritize electoral integrity and oversight and those who may view the bill as an unnecessary impediment to the governor's ability to act swiftly during emergencies. Supporters may argue that legislative approval is essential for maintaining trust in the electoral process, while opponents might contend that it could delay necessary actions in the face of urgent situations, thus potentially undermining effective governance.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB 1343 center around the balance of power between the executive and legislative branches during a crisis. Critics may express concerns that requiring legislative approval for emergency election orders complicates governance and impedes quick responses to unforeseen circumstances. Meanwhile, advocates for the bill may assert that such checks are vital to protect the integrity of elections and prevent potential overreach or abuse of power by state officials.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NH HR1

Amending The Majority Caucus Leadership, Minority Caucus Leadership, And Chairs, Vice Chairs, And Members Of The Standing Committees Of The House Of Representatives Of The Thirty-third Legislature.

NH SR9

A Senate resolution naming a Majority Leader and a Minority Leader

NH HCR1

This concurrent resolution authorizes Congress to assemble at a place outside Washington, DC, during the 119th Congress if the Speaker of the House and the Senate Majority Leader agree that it is in the public interest. The concurrent resolution provides that the Speaker of the House and the Senate Majority Leader shall act jointly after consultation with the House and Senate Minority Leaders.

NH HB1166

Cities and towns; annexation; procedures; annexation of territory without consent of majority of owners; effective date.

NH HB1166

Cities and towns; annexation; procedures; annexation of territory without consent of majority of owners; effective date.

NH SJ00001

Resolution Concerning The Joint Rules Of The Senate And The House Of Representatives.

NH S01596

Limits the tenure of the temporary president of the senate, speaker of the assembly, majority leader of the senate, minority leader of the senate, majority leader of the assembly and minority leader of the assembly to 8 years; limits the tenure of the chairman of any single legislative committee to 8 consecutive years.

NH S01583

Limits the tenure of the temporary president of the senate, speaker of the assembly, majority leader of the senate, minority leader of the senate, majority leader of the assembly and minority leader of the assembly to 8 years; limits the tenure of the chair of any single legislative committee to 8 consecutive years.

NH HR1574

Hugley, House Minority Leader Carolyn Fleming; historic leadership and enduring legacy of service; recognize

NH HR172

Relative to the election of the minority leader, the assistant minority leader, and the minority whip for the 136th General Assembly of Ohio.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.