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Bill

SB 140

establishing a domestic violence fatality review committee.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Regina Birdsell

New Hampshire creates a domestic violence fatality review committee to analyze deaths and recommend prevention measures to reduce future tragedies through systemic improvements.

Signed by the Governor on 07/15/2025; Chapter 0234; Effective 07/15/2025
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Bill Summary · SB 140

Legislative bill overview

SB 140 establishes a domestic violence fatality review committee in New Hampshire to systematically examine deaths resulting from domestic violence incidents. The committee will analyze cases, identify patterns, and develop recommendations to prevent future fatalities through improved policies and inter-agency coordination.

Why is this important

Domestic violence fatalities represent preventable tragedies that often involve multiple warning signs and agency interactions. A dedicated review process can reveal gaps in current systems, improve information-sharing between law enforcement and social services, and inform evidence-based prevention strategies that other states have used successfully.

Potential points of contention

  • Resource allocation: Establishing a new government committee requires funding and staff time during budget constraints, raising questions about cost-effectiveness versus other public safety investments
  • Privacy and transparency balance: Case reviews of fatalities involve sensitive family information and ongoing legal matters, creating tension between public accountability and victim/family privacy protections
  • Implementation responsibility: Unclear which state agency leads the committee and whether recommendations are binding or advisory, affecting the likelihood that identified reforms actually get implemented

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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