HB1788 Holding state contracts with DEI provisions to be void as a matter of law and establishing a right of action for citizens where public entities or state agencies engage with contracts with DEI provisions.
Holding state contracts with DEI provisions to be void as a matter of law and establishing a right of action for citizens where public entities or state agencies engage with contracts with DEI provisions.
Impact Score — How Does This Bill Affect You?
Overall Impact Score
Concerning
Scale: 1 (harmful) to 10 (beneficial)
Your Wallet
Litigation risk from citizen lawsuits could increase state legal costs; voiding contracts creates uncertainty and potential disruption of services.
Your Community
Banning DEI provisions eliminates efforts to ensure equitable access to state contracting opportunities for underrepresented communities.
Your Freedom
While framed as protecting against compelled ideology, it restricts state agencies from voluntarily promoting inclusive practices.
Status
Refer to Interim Study, Motion Adopted, Voice Vote; 04/16/2026; Senate Journal 9
Sponsor
Richard Nalevanko (R)
The Short Version
Would void any state contract containing DEI provisions and allow citizens to sue state agencies over such contracts, effectively banning diversity, equity, and inclusion requirements in government contracting. Advancing through Senate Judiciary committee.
Who's Behind This Bill?
Who Benefits
- ▲ Those who oppose DEI programs
- ▲ Contractors who don't want to comply with diversity requirements
Who Pays the Price
- ▼ Minority-owned and women-owned businesses benefiting from equitable contracting
- ▼ State agencies facing litigation risk
- ▼ Communities served by diverse contractor pools
Bill statuses as of May 2026. Check LegiScan or NH General Court for the latest.
This bill was auto-scored using AI analysis of the bill text and legislative data. Scores may be refined as we review more bills.