Revision: Feb. 11, 2026, 9:36 a.m.
Rep. Kuttab, Rock. 17
Rep. Alexander Jr., Hills. 29
February 4, 2026
2026-0542h
04/09
Amendment to HB 1639-FN
Amend the title of the bill by replacing it with the following:
AN ACT relative to grand jury investigations and instructions.
Amend the bill by replacing all after the enacting clause with the following:
1 New Sections; Grand Juries; Powers and Duties; Instructions; Enforcement. Amend RSA 600 by inserting after section 5 the following new sections:
600:6 Powers and Duties.
I. Matters may be brought to the grand jury’s attention by:
(a) The attorney general or an assistant attorney general;
(b) A county attorney or an assistant county attorney;
(c) The court;
(d) A member of the grand jury with personal knowledge of a matter within the grand jury’s jurisdiction; or
(e) Private citizens who have a right to be heard by a grand jury in formal session with the grand jury's consent.
II. In all cases, the grand jury must hear evidence before taking action.
III. The grand jury has the right to:
(a) Ask for information and documents using a subpoena;
(b) Question any person; and
(c) Obtain and examine any documents or evidence presented on the case.
600:7 Instructions. Not later than 10 days prior to the term of service of each juror, the superior court shall provide each juror a copy of instructions. The instructions shall inform jurors in lay terminology of the nature and extent of their forthcoming duties and responsibilities. Each juror shall read the instructions before they report for juror service. The handbook shall be a public document. The instructions shall include information regarding grand juries in this state having the authority and responsibility to issue presentments, reports, and findings concerning any matter within its jurisdiction in accordance with RSA 600:6.
600:8 Enforcement. Nothing in this chapter shall derogate from authority of the grand jury, or the rights of others, provided by common law or other statute.
2 Effective Date. This act shall take effect January 1, 2027.
2026-0542h
AMENDED ANALYSIS
This bill expands grand jury authority and mandates juror instructions while preserving existing rights.