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NH HB1438
Bill
Status
12/4/2025
Primary Sponsor
Ellen Read
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AI Summary
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Requires mental health professionals licensed under RSA 330-A to report suspected animal cruelty, neglect, exploitation, or hazardous living conditions to law enforcement or the NH Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
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Creates an exception to client confidentiality, mandating disclosure even when information about animal abuse would normally be protected
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Provides immunity from monetary liability and lawsuits for licensed mental health professionals who report suspected animal abuse in good faith
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Reporting duty is satisfied by making reasonable efforts to notify either the nearest police department or the NH SPCA
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Takes effect 60 days after passage
Legislative Description
Enabling mental health caseworkers to report instances of animal abuse by their clients.
Last Action
Ought to Pass with Amendment 2026-1024h: Motion Adopted Voice Vote 03/11/2026 House Journal 7
3/11/2026