New Hampshire law

Civil Rights Laws in New Hampshire.

The New Hampshire Law Against Discrimination (RSA Chapter 354-A) is New Hampshire's principal civil-rights statute. The NH Commission for Human Rights (NHCHR) administers it. Coverage includes employment, housing, and public accommodations. New Hampshire added gender identity as a protected class in 2018. Federal claims under § 1983, Title VII, ADA, and the Fair Housing Act remain available in New Hampshire federal courts. New Hampshire's Constitution contains Part First, Article 2 (equal protection) and a distinctive "Live Free or Die" tradition that shapes constitutional-rights litigation.

Last verified: 2026-04-17

State law

Statute of Limitations

180 days (NHCHR); 300 days (EEOC dual-filed)RSA 354-A:21

Discrimination complaints must be filed with the NH Commission for Human Rights within 180 days (or 300 days if dual-filed with EEOC).

State law

Key New Hampshire Statutes

New Hampshire Law Against DiscriminationRSA Chapter 354-A

Prohibits discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodations based on race, color, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, pregnancy-related conditions, physical or mental disability, and (for employment) military service.

Gender Identity Protections (2018)HB 1319 (2018); RSA 354-A

New Hampshire added gender identity as a protected class in employment, housing, and public accommodations in 2018.

Civil Rights Act (State-Law Private Remedy)RSA Chapter 354-B

Provides a civil action against a person who interferes with civil rights by actual or threatened violence, intimidation, or property damage. Attorney fees and punitive damages available.

State Employment Discrimination — Larger ApplicabilityRSA 354-A:7

NHLAD applies to employers with 6 or more employees — broader than Title VII (15+ employees).

State law

Official Sources

New Hampshire Commission for Human Rights U.S. EEOC

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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Civil Rights Laws in New Hampshire.

Statute of Limitations

Key New Hampshire Statutes

Official Sources

Not Legal Advice

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