NH HB1158

Expands the definition of "intimate partner" in domestic violence statutes to include persons currently or formerly involved in a sexual relationship, in addition to the existing coverage of romantic relationships

Amends RSA 173-B:1, XV (Protection of Persons from Domestic Violence) and RSA 631:2-b, III(b) (Criminal Code Domestic Violence) with identical language changes

Current law covers romantic relationships "whether or not such relationship was ever sexually consummated"; the amendment adds explicit coverage for sexual relationships that may not be romantic in nature

Effective date is January 1, 2027

Fiscal impact on state, county, and local expenditures is indeterminable due to potential changes in prosecution, incarceration, and related costs