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New Hampshire law requires that independent living retirement communities file an annual registration statement with the Consumer Protection and Antitrust Bureau of the Department of Justice. The law, N.H.
RSA 161-J:10, which became effective January 1, 2004 states in pertinent part:
That any person, corporation, partnership, association or other entity operating an independent living retirement community in New Hampshire must file an annual registration statement. A copy must also be sent to the Department of Health and Human Services, Bureau of Health Facilities Administration. They are also required to insure that the registration statement is available to all current and prospective residents of the community upon their request.
The statute defines an independent living retirement community as:
A facility, housing unit, or community, which is free-standing or part of a larger community, organization, or enterprise, that furnishes to senior citizens 55 years of age and older, on a contractual basis, housing and any additional on-site or off-site services.
All independent living retirement communities may request a registration form by contacting the Consumer Protection and Antitrust Bureau at 603-271-3643, or download the form at the Department of Justice.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why must I register an Independent Living Retirement Community with the Consumer Protection and Antitrust Bureau (the "Bureau")?
The New Hampshire Legislature enacted RSA 161-J, which became effective January 1, 2004. The statute requires that any person, corporation, partnership, association or other entity operating an independent living retirement community in the State of New Hampshire must file an annual registration statement with the Consumer Protection and Antitrust Bureau.
2. Who needs to register?
Only those facilities that meet the definition of an "independent living retirement community" are required to register. The criteria are: 1) facility, housing unit or community; 2) free standing or part of a larger community; 3) that furnishes to senior citizens 55 years of age and older; and 4) housing and additional on-site or off-site services on a contractual basis. In order to fall within the registration requirement, all of these conditions must be met.
3. How often do I have to register?
Registration shall be updated annually. (RSA 161-J:10).
4. Is there a fee?
There is no fee to register with the Bureau.
5. What do I need to do to become registered?
Contact the Consumer Protection and Antitrust Bureau at 271-3643 and request an Annual Registration Statement or download a form on the Bureau's website at: www.doj.nh.gov/publications/consumer_forms.html
6. What happens if I don't register?
In addition to other appropriate penalties, any violation of the provisions of RSA 161:J shall constitute an unfair or deceptive act or practice within the meaning of RSA 358-A.
7. NOTICE: Access to the statutes is available online at:
