New Hampshire Commission for Human Rights - Concord, NH

NH Commission for Human Rights Overview

The New Hampshire Commission for Human Rights is the state agency dedicated to the enforcement of New Hampshire's anti-discrimination laws (RSA 354-A). Relocated to Regional Drive, the Commission acts as a neutral investigative body that receives and examines complaints of unlawful discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodations. The agency's mission is to eliminate discrimination based on age, sex, race, disability, sexual orientation, and other protected characteristics through both enforcement and education.

Complaint Process and Investigation

The primary function of this office is to process formal charges of discrimination. The Commission is not an advocate for either side but serves as a fact-finder. Services available at this location include:

• Intake: Staff assist individuals in determining if their situation falls under the Commission's jurisdiction and help draft formal complaints.
• Investigation: Investigators gather evidence, conduct witness interviews, and determine if there is probable cause to believe discrimination occurred.
• Mediation: The Commission offers mediation services to help parties resolve disputes voluntarily without a full investigation or public hearing.

Jurisdiction and Hearings

If a finding of probable cause is made, the Commission may hold public hearings, which function similarly to court proceedings. The agency has the power to order remedies such as reinstatement, back pay, and cease-and-desist orders. The Commission also collaborates with the federal EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission) and HUD (Department of Housing and Urban Development) to manage cases that violate federal laws.

Visiting the Commission

The office is open to the public for inquiries and filing complaints. While walk-ins are accepted, appointments are encouraged for intake interviews to ensure staff availability. The facility is accessible and provides resources for those needing language interpretation or disability accommodations.