SB139 Creating a private right of action in civil rights cases.
Creating a private right of action in civil rights cases.
Impact Score — How Does This Bill Affect You?
Overall Impact Score
Mixed
Scale: 1 (harmful) to 10 (beneficial)
Your Wallet
Could result in litigation costs for government entities found to violate civil rights, potentially recovered by taxpayers but also deterring violations.
Your Community
Gives individuals meaningful recourse when their civil rights are violated by state or local government, strengthening accountability.
Your Freedom
Creates an essential legal tool for individuals to enforce their civil rights in state court, significantly strengthening protections against government overreach.
Status
Refer to Interim Study, Motion Adopted, Voice Vote; 01/07/2026; Senate Journal 1
Sponsor
Donovan Fenton (D)
The Short Version
Would have allowed individuals to sue in state court for civil rights violations, creating a private enforcement mechanism similar to federal Section 1983 claims. Referred to interim study.
Who's Behind This Bill?
Who Benefits
- ▲ Individuals whose civil rights are violated
- ▲ Civil rights organizations
- ▲ Attorneys practicing civil rights law
Who Pays the Price
- ▼ Government entities that could face lawsuits
- ▼ Taxpayers funding settlements for civil rights violations
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.