NH Representative Ellen Read Claims Immunity for Speeding Charges

New Hampshire State Representative Ellen Read is attempting to have two speeding charges dismissed by citing a 1784 constitutional provision that protects legislators from arrest while traveling to or from legislative sessions. Read was cited twice on Interstate 93: first in December 2024 in Windham for driving 107 mph in a 65-mph zone, and again in June 2025 in Londonderry for driving 92 mph.

Read argues that while the constitution does not exempt lawmakers from criminal liability or prosecution, it protects the commute itself to prevent interference with legislative duties. This legal strategy has largely failed. A judge rejected the argument in the first case, resulting in a negligent driving conviction in August 2025 and a $1,240 fine. The Supreme Court of New Hampshire subsequently refused to hear her appeal on the matter. Read's office has since challenged the evidence of the first stop, claiming her vehicle was physically incapable of reaching 100 mph and noting a lack of radar or body-camera footage.

Read faces a hearing on August 12, 2026, to discuss deferred punishment for the second citation. Her office alleges that the public surfacing of these closed cases is retaliation for her legislative efforts to investigate the New Hampshire Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence, which she has characterized as a corrupt network.