N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 53-C:5

Any existing contract, license, permit, resolution or other accepted authorization for a cable television system which is in operation as of April 2, 1974, or for a cable television system which has substantially completed the installation of equipment and facilities as of such date, shall be deemed to be a franchise under the provisions of this chapter until the earlier of the expiration of its stated term, if any, or the date of any renewal or amendment required under applicable Rules and Regulations of the Federal Communications Commission, as amended from time to time.