relative to permissible window tinting on motor vehicles.
Summary
HB 1178 would change New Hampshire law governing window tinting on motor vehicles. The bill allows aftermarket tinting on the front side windows—the windows to the left and right of the driver—so long as the windows maintain at least 35 percent visible light transmittance, measured under applicable testing standards. It also preserves and expands the medical waiver process for tinting, allowing the commissioner to issue special permits for bona fide medical reasons for tinting on the windshield or front side windows, again limited to no less than 35 percent visible light transmittance.
The bill further clarifies that medical documentation for a waiver may come from a licensed medical provider in New Hampshire or from a VA-affiliated licensed provider regardless of the provider’s state of licensure. The act would take effect January 1, 2027, and would amend RSA 266:58-a and RSA 266:61-a, which regulate vehicle equipment and tinting compliance in the state.
Impact
HB 1178 would broaden the legality of aftermarket window tinting in New Hampshire by permitting front side window tinting at a specified minimum light-transmittance level, while also formalizing a medical exemption process for additional tinting needs. It would affect vehicle owners, tint installers, law enforcement, and the Department of Safety or other administering agency responsible for testing, enforcement, and permit issuance. The bill would amend existing motor vehicle equipment statutes and require the commissioner to establish or continue testing and measurement procedures for compliance.
Sentiment
The available vote history suggests mixed but somewhat favorable legislative sentiment, with the House voting 204-142 to table or indefinitely postpone the bill as summarized by the ITL notation. That vote indicates substantial support for the concept, but not enough to advance it in that chamber at that stage. No committee transcript is available, so the recorded vote is the main indicator of sentiment.
Contention
The main point of contention is likely the balance between driver preference and vehicle safety/enforcement concerns. Supporters would favor allowing more flexible aftermarket tinting and easier access to medical waivers, especially for veterans and people with documented medical needs. Opponents would likely worry that darker front-side tinting could reduce visibility for drivers and law enforcement, complicate roadside enforcement, or create safety risks. The medical waiver provision, especially the acceptance of VA-affiliated providers from other states, may also be a point of discussion around administrative standards and verification.
Permitting health care providers affiliated with the Veterans Administration to certify medical accommodations on behalf of veterans residing in New Hampshire.
Removing the requirement for physical safety inspections and on-board diagnostic tests for passenger vehicles and eliminating funding for the motor vehicle air pollution abatement fund.