CONCORD, NH — The New Hampshire House has passed House Bill 1793, legislation that would prohibit public colleges and universities from regulating the possession or carrying of firearms and non-lethal weapons on their campuses. The measure, titled the Protecting College Students Act, cleared the House on February 5 with a vote of 188–165 and now moves to the Finance Committee for further consideration.
HB 1793, sponsored by 14 Republican legislators from both chambers, aims to align campus policy with New Hampshire’s constitutional carry laws and Article 2-a of the state constitution, which guarantees the right to bear arms. The bill would override any existing or future rules set by public higher education institutions that restrict lawful possession or carry of firearms, pepper spray, stun guns, or other non-lethal weapons.
The legislation further empowers individuals who feel aggrieved by such restrictions to sue the institution and responsible employees for injunctive relief, damages, and attorney’s fees. A minimum of $10,000 in damages would be awarded in successful suits.
The bill also establishes that no special permits or licenses would be required to carry firearms or non-lethal weapons on public college campuses, treating such locations the same as any other public space in the state.
In support of the bill, lawmakers cited Supreme Court precedent, including Castle Rock v. Gonzales and NYSRPA v. Bruen, and emphasized that prohibitions on lawful carry disarm potential victims while failing to deter criminals. The findings section asserts that public universities lack the legal authority to override state constitutional rights.
A fiscal note submitted by the University System of New Hampshire (USNH) expressed concern over potential costs and liabilities associated with the legislation. USNH warned of possible increases in insurance premiums, legal exposure, and infrastructure investments needed for secure weapon storage and enhanced campus safety. The system estimated additional operating expenses ranging from $100,000 to $500,000 and noted potential reputational impacts affecting enrollment and revenue.
Despite these objections, the bill received a favorable majority committee report and cleared the House with strong support from pro-2A legislators.
HB 1793 is a significant step toward reaffirming the constitutional rights of law-abiding citizens on public college campuses. In a state that already recognizes constitutional carry, students, faculty, and visitors should not be stripped of their rights simply because they step onto public university property. Ensuring parity between public campuses and the rest of the state strengthens not only individual self-defense but also the principle that fundamental rights do not stop at the campus gate.
What’s Next?
HB 1793 has been referred to the House Finance Committee, where it will be reviewed for its fiscal implications. If it passes out of committee, it will proceed to the full House for a second vote before being sent to the Senate for consideration. If approved by both chambers and signed by the governor, the law would take effect on January 1, 2027.
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