New Hampshire law
Administrative Laws in New Hampshire.
New Hampshire administrative law is governed by the Administrative Procedure Act (RSA Chapter 541-A), which governs rulemaking, contested cases, and judicial review of state agency action. Agencies must publish proposed rules, hold public hearings, and submit to the Joint Legislative Committee on Administrative Rules (JLCAR). Contested cases are heard by agency hearing officers or Office of Administrative Hearings. Final agency decisions are reviewable in Superior Court.
Last verified: 2026-04-17
State law
Key New Hampshire Statutes
New Hampshire's APA governs rulemaking and contested cases. Rulemaking requires notice, public hearing, fiscal impact statement, and JLCAR review.
Final agency decisions are reviewable under RSA Chapter 541 (specific agencies) or Superior Court certiorari. Standard: whether the decision is unlawful or unreasonable based on the record.
Several state agencies use the Department of Safety Bureau of Hearings or other centralized hearing offices for contested cases.
State law
Official Sources
Not Legal Advice
This page summarizes publicly available statutes and rules for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is created by viewing this content. Laws change — always verify with the primary source or consult a licensed attorney in New Hampshire.
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