NH First Celebrates House Passage of HB1706: Prioritizing Resources for New Hampshire Citizens
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Concord, NH – March 11, 2026 – Today, the New Hampshire House of Representatives passed HB1706, a bill that repeals the state’s refugee resettlement program administered through the Department of Health and Human Services and prohibits the expenditure of state funds on refugee resettlement activities.
This victory aligns directly with NH First’s core mission: to ensure that every taxpayer dollar and government resource is expended exclusively on New Hampshire citizens and their families.
“This is the start of a movement,” said Patrick Binder, Director of NH First. “New Hampshire’s government belongs to Granite Staters. HB1706’s passage in the House sends a clear message: our government must put our citizens first.”
HB1706 terminates state involvement in federal refugee resettlement programs, ends existing contracts, and bars any state agency, department, or political subdivision from accepting or spending funds—directly or indirectly—for refugee settlement, assistance, or related efforts. By redirecting focus and resources back to Granite Staters, this legislation strengthens our communities, reduces unnecessary burdens on state budgets, and upholds the principle that public services should first and foremost serve those who built and sustain New Hampshire.
NH First extends sincere thanks to the bill’s sponsors, the dedicated representatives who voted in favor, the Health, Human Services and Elderly Affairs Committee for its Ought to Pass recommendation, and every lawmaker who stood with New Hampshire citizens today.
Mr. Binder adds that, “NH First absolutely denounces the wicked NGOs who argued against HB1706; we find their replacement migration arguments disgusting and anti-American and hope history forgets they were ever our countrymen.”
NH First urges the Senate to act swiftly on HB1706 and calls on all Granite Staters to stay engaged as we work toward final passage and enactment.
For more information and to get involved, visit https://nhfirst.org
About NH First
NH First is a non-partisan organization based in New Hampshire, working to ensure that state government resources—funds, services, and opportunities—are allocated exclusively to New Hampshire citizens. We can be reached at contact@nhfirst.org
