New Hampshire

Summary

New Hampshire has enacted a targeted cluster of AI-behavior laws since 2024, focused primarily on synthetic-media (deepfake) fraud and child safety around AI companions, rather than broad disclosure or automated-decision-making mandates. Governor Sununu signed HB 1596 (2024) requiring disclosure of AI-generated content in political advertising and HB 1432 (2024) criminalizing fraudulent deepfake use and creating a private right of action for victims; both took effect January 1, 2025. Governor Ayotte signed HB 143 in August 2025 (effective January 1, 2026) prohibiting AI chatbot operators from facilitating harmful conduct toward children. The legislature has rejected broader AI governance frameworks — HB 1725 (2026), which would have established a comprehensive AI council and regulatory sandbox, was killed 16-0 in committee — reflecting a preference for narrow, targeted legislation. Several 2026 bills remain active: SB 657 (deceptive AI use in commerce, passed both chambers as of May 2026, awaiting gubernatorial action) and HB 1406 (prohibiting health insurers from using AI to override clinical judgment, pending in Senate). New Hampshire's general Consumer Protection Act (RSA 358-A) provides a backstop against deceptive AI practices in commerce in the absence of a stand-alone chatbot-disclosure statute.