NH HB1085

Redefines and limits police commission authority, explicitly stating police commissions are not governing bodies under RSA 32 (municipal budget law)

Police commissioners retain authority to appoint police personnel (officers, staff, constables, superior officers) and establish pay scales, step systems, and compensation schedules

Commissioners may remove police personnel for just cause after due process hearings, except special police officers who serve at the commission's pleasure

Prohibits police commissions from using unused or unencumbered budget funds for salary increases beyond established step raises based on years of service and rank

Funds appropriated for vacant positions may only be used once those positions are filled; all unexpended police department funds must lapse to the unreserved fund balance at fiscal year end

Takes effect 60 days after passage