Bill
HB 767
HB 767 would require DHHS to expand and formalize reporting of certain safety, abuse, neglect, or risk cases to law enforcement to improve coordination and information sharing.
HB 767 (New Hampshire, Session 2026)
Expanding requirements for reports to law enforcement by the Department of Health and Human Services
Summary
This bill would broaden the instances in which the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) must report certain information to law enforcement authorities. The overarching aim appears to strengthen coordination between DHHS and law enforcement by increasing mandatory reporting to police or related agencies, presumably in cases involving safety, abuse, neglect, or other circumstances where state services intersect with criminal justice concerns.
Key provisions (as indicated by the bill’s trajectory through committee work and amendments)
- Expanded reporting triggers: The bill would add or extend categories of situations in which DHHS must notify or report to law enforcement. These triggers may involve suspected abuse or neglect, imminent danger to a minor or vulnerable adult, financial exploitation, or other risks identified by DHHS investigations or assessments.
- Scope of agencies: Reports would be directed to appropriate law enforcement authorities, potentially including local police, sheriffs, or statewide agencies with investigative authority.
- Coordination requirements: DHHS would be required to coordinate with law enforcement in investigations or responses, including sharing information as allowed by privacy and confidentiality laws.
- Privacy and confidentiality: The bill would likely set parameters for information sharing, balancing public safety with individuals’ privacy protections. This could include limits on disclosure, avenues for redactions, or procedures to handle confidential client information.
- Training and policy updates: DHHS may be required to update internal policies, provide staff training on new reporting requirements, and establish timelines for implementing procedures.
- Accountability and reporting: Potential annual or periodic reporting to the Legislature or oversight bodies on the implementation and outcomes of the reporting requirements.
Who would be affected
- DHHS programs and personnel: Employees and offices responsible for child welfare, adult protective services, public health, mental health, and related supportive services.
- Law enforcement agencies: Police and other investigators receiving increased or formalized referrals from DHHS.
- Individuals and families served by DHHS: Recipients of DHHS services who may be subject to new reporting interactions, including cases involving children, elders, or individuals with disabilities.
- Privacy and legal compliance entities: Entities ensuring compliance with state and federal privacy laws, because expanded data sharing could implicate confidential information.
Procedural and timeline notes
- Introduction and referrals: HB 767 was introduced in January 2026 and has progressed through Judiciary with initial amendments and hearings.
- Committee process: The bill has undergone several stages, including referral to the Judiciary Committee, hearings, and votes. It has been amended (e.g., Amendment #2025-3037h) and had reports favorably recommending consideration with amendments.
- Interim study path: The bill’s most recent actions include being referred to Interim Study, indicating the Legislature may direct further review before moving to a full floor vote.
- Key dates: Hearing held March 24, 2026; committee report and subsequent referrals in April 2026; noted activity in SJ (Senate Journal) and HC/CC processes during 2025–2026.
Notes and caveats
- Specific language: The exact statutory text is not provided here; this summary reflects the bill’s apparent intent and the typical structure of expanded reporting requirements.
- Scope limitations: Details on which specific offenses or risk factors trigger reporting, and what information can be shared, depend on the enacted language and any accompanying privacy protections or exemptions.
If you’d like, I can tailor this summary to focus on particular stakeholders (e.g., child welfare advocates, law enforcement, or privacy rights groups) or provide a side-by-side comparison with current law to highlight exactly what changes HB 767 would implement.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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