Committee Summary for House Education Policy and Administration (01/21/2026)

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
HB1077 00:08:01.120 - 9:02:47 AM	Public Hearing	including domestic violence prevention as a wellness subject to be taught to pupils.	Scherr, Buzz(D)[D-]2025
HB1635 00:25:59.840 - 9:20:45 AM	Public Hearing	modifying the requirements of suicide prevention education policies in schools.	Litchfield, Melissa(R)[B+]2025
HB1448 00:49:47.440 - 9:44:33 AM	Public Hearing	prohibiting the use of the World Economic Forum materials within state curriculum.	Morse, Bryan(R)[A-]2025
HB307 01:07:54.480 - 10:02:40 AM	Public Hearing	relative to the food production area for homestead food.	Bixby, Peter(D)[F]2025
HB1830 03:07:30.319 - 12:02:16 PM	Public Hearing	requiring firearm safety education in all public schools.	Roy, Terry(R)[B]2025
HB1122 2026-0183H 03:35:23.920 - 12:30:09 PM	Public Hearing	requiring all high school students to learn about hunting, wildlife management, and responsible firearms usage.	McFarlane, Donald(R)[A]2025
HB1834 04:59:54.560 - 1:54:40 PM	Public Hearing	relative to the education freedom account enrollment cap.	Weinstein, Toni(D)[F]2025
HB1716 05:28:25.040 - 2:23:11 PM	Public Hearing	relative to the academic accountability of education freedom accounts.	Bricchi, Tracy(D)[D-]2025
HB1264 05:52:18.400 - 2:47:04 PM	Public Hearing	increasing the requirements of the education freedom savings account oversight committee and modifying the purpose of the committee.	Balboni, Peggy(D)[CT]2025

HB1077: Representative Buzz Sher, Rockingham District 26 Support00:08:01.120 - 9:02:47 AM; Representative Sher, a former public defender and incoming chair of the Portsmouth Police Commission, introduced HB 1077, which adds domestic violence prevention to the school health education curriculum under RSA 189:10. He highlighted the persistent high rates of domestic violence despite past efforts and emphasized the need for early education to prevent it in future generations. The bill is a simple addition to existing requirements on preventing sexual violence, allowing schools to tailor the content appropriately.
HB1077: Mary Wilson, retired assistant superintendent and curriculum coordinator Information Only00:13:06.480 - 9:07:52 AM; Mary Wilson provided information on curriculum development challenges, particularly the 60-day implementation timeline after passage. She distributed a flyer outlining objectives like discussion, development, implementation, and training. She stressed the need for local discussions to define domestic violence prevention and suggested more time, such as until the next school year, to convene health teachers and address unfunded mandates.
HB1077: Bear Christina, New Hampshire School Boards Association Information Only00:17:28.720 - 9:12:14 AM; Bear Christina testified neutrally on HB 1077 but raised concerns about adding non-academic requirements to school curricula, listing examples like child abuse instruction, suicide prevention, civics exams, and others. He noted the limited school day and year, suggesting that new additions should involve removing existing requirements to maintain focus on core academics like reading, writing, and arithmetic.
HB1077: Pamela Kig, Coalition for Domestic Violence (written testimony) Support00:23:08.640 - 9:17:54 AM; Written testimony was submitted in support of HB 1077, though the sponsor could not testify in person due to scheduling conflicts with another bill.
HB1635: Representative Margaret Dry, Sullivan District 7 Support00:25:59.840 - 9:20:45 AM; As co-sponsor, Representative Dry explained that HB 1635 changes suicide prevention training from annual to within 30 days of hiring and every two years thereafter. Drawing from her EMT experience, she noted the burden of annual training in small districts and argued for biennial updates to avoid overtraining while ensuring new hires are covered. She emphasized the importance of the training without making it overly repetitive.
HB1635: Lindsay Gilbert Information Only00:31:59.519 - 9:26:45 AM; The hearing opened to Lindsay Gilbert as the next speaker, but no further testimony details were provided in the transcript.
HB1635: Lindsay Gilbert, Executive Director of Connor Klein Foundation Oppose00:32:42.240 - 9:27:28 AM; Lindsay Gilbert opposes HB 1635, arguing that it weakens New Hampshire's suicide prevention protections for students by removing minimum training hours, eliminating annual refreshers, and allowing passive self-guided materials. She emphasizes that suicide prevention training is a life-saving skill that requires regular updates due to changing warning signs, high staff turnover, and evolving student needs. Educators report that annual training builds confidence and clarifies response protocols, especially amid rising mental health concerns. Gilbert notes that districts already have flexibility, and nonprofits like hers provide free, flexible training options. She urges maintaining current standards to ensure student safety.
HB1635: Joe Alexander, Representative from Gtown Oppose00:35:58.800 - 9:30:44 AM; Representative Joe Alexander opposes HB 1635 as written, highlighting his role in passing the 2019 two-hour suicide awareness training requirement through SB 282. He references ongoing initiatives like adding suicide hotlines to student IDs and expresses reluctance to roll back progress on youth suicide prevention. While acknowledging potential burdens on parent volunteers, he suggests modifications rather than full rollback and offers to work with sponsors or committee members.
HB1635: Martha Dicki, resident of Tilton Oppose00:37:27.920 - 9:32:13 AM; Martha Dicki, who lost her son Jason to suicide in 2017 at age 19, strongly opposes HB 1635 for attempting to roll back components of SB 282. She recalls the collaborative effort to pass the 2019 legislation mandating annual two-hour suicide prevention training for school staff and volunteers, which has proven beneficial without being burdensome, as reported by educators, counselors, and bus drivers. Dicki stresses that schools are key in addressing student mental health crises and urges rejection of the bill to preserve this vital, life-saving measure.
HB1635: Holly Stevens, Director of Public Policy at NAMI New Hampshire Oppose00:39:54.079 - 9:34:40 AM; Holly Stevens opposes HB 1635, noting the 2019 bipartisan passage of SB 282 requiring two hours of annual suicide prevention training, which was chosen over lesser proposals. She cites the US Surgeon General's 2024 identification of suicide as a preventable public health crisis, with profound community impacts. In New Hampshire, suicide is the leading cause of death for ages 10-14 and second for 15-24, with rates worsening since 2019. The 2023 youth survey shows high rates of sadness, suicidal ideation, planning, and attempts, peaking in 2021. Stevens urges voting inexpedient to legislate, offering to address volunteer concerns without reducing training.
HB1635: Katherine Cox, Statewide Suicide Prevention Coordinator, Department of Health and Human Services Information Only00:44:10.000 - 9:38:56 AM; Katherine Cox provides neutral data and context on suicide in New Hampshire, where rates exceed the national average and disproportionately affect youth, especially during transitions to adulthood. Schools are crucial for prevention as staff interact most with students and can recognize warning signs through disclosures or behavioral changes. Training equips personnel to identify risks, understand referrals, and support youth confidently. She notes gender differences in suicide deaths and attempts, emphasizing coordinated efforts across families, schools, and systems for prevention. Cox references the NH Suicide Prevention Council's annual report for statistics and offers it to the committee.
HB1448: Representative Mike Belchure, Wakefield Support00:49:47.440 - 9:44:33 AM; Representative Belchure introduced the bill, explaining it prohibits World Economic Forum (WEF) materials in public school curricula. He cited a quote from the American Federation of Teachers partnering with WEF for semiconductor industry curriculum in New York. He argued the WEF opposes national sovereignty, promotes ties with the Chinese Communist Party, technocracy, and anti-American views, referencing Klaus Schwab's interviews with a Lenin bust. He confirmed no known current use in NH but noted WEF's UN/UNESCO ties and historical curriculum links.
HB1448: Representative Woodcock Information Only00:50:44.000 - 9:45:30 AM; Asked for the source of the quote, which Belchure confirmed as an AFT press release.
HB1448: Representative Selig Information Only00:51:56.400 - 9:46:42 AM; Questioned the objection to WEF as a vetted source. Belchure elaborated on WEF's supranational nature, opposition to sovereignty, CCP ties, technocracy, and Schwab's anti-American stance.
HB1448: Representative Baloney Information Only00:53:02.000 - 9:47:48 AM; Challenged Belchure's views as opinion, not fact. Belchure acknowledged some opinion but cited documented facts on Schwab and CCP ties. Baloney followed up asking if NH uses such materials and why the bill is needed; Belchure noted limited knowledge but WEF-UN/UNESCO partnerships and past UN curriculum history.
HB1448: Representative Murray Information Only00:55:18.480 - 9:50:04 AM; Inquired about implications of limiting WEF materials on global conversations, especially technology/jobs. Belchure clarified the bill narrowly targets public school curriculum, not restricting First Amendment rights or private partnerships.
HB1448: Mary Wilson, retired assistant superintendent for curriculum, consultant Oppose00:56:36.960 - 9:51:22 AM; Opposed the bill, arguing it contradicts RSA lines on local school district responsibility for curriculum maintenance and local control over methods, materials, and instruction suited to community needs.
HB307: Representative Dave Lunell, Hopkinton and Bow Support01:07:54.480 - 10:02:40 AM; Prime sponsor Lunell introduced the bill, inspired by the August 2025 NH Civic Summit at the Supreme Court, attended by judiciary, nonprofits, and educators but few legislators. He described Chief Justice Gordon McDonald's concerns on eroding public confidence in courts, questions on access to lawyers (90% without), judicial selection/accountability via the conduct committee. Summit featured civic group presentations, knowledge exercises, and support for hands-on civics experiences like Youth & Government, Boys/Girls State, courtroom visits over classroom-only instruction. Nina Gardner (NH Judicial Council chair) lamented the loss of the NH Bar Association's civics advisory commission and urged revival. Lunell committed to legislation with Rep. Bob Lynn (who supports). Bill duties: develop civics framework for all grades, design professional development, integrate across disciplines, collaborate with educators/leaders/organizations. Noted title misleading; no statewide curriculum development, just advisory support. Open to timeline amendments (e.g., to 2027/2030 with annual reports) for ongoing relevance. Clarified intent as framework/resources, not mandated curriculum; distinguished from 2022 civics commission (limited to NH Constitution textbook/curriculum, status unclear). Explained appointments, including teachers from unions for expertise.
HB307: Representative Freeman Information Only01:15:58.159 - 10:10:44 AM; Asked Lunell to name civic groups at the summit; he listed NH PBS, Granite YMCA (Youth & Government), NH High School Mock Trial Association, Portsmouth High School, General Court reps, US District Court Judge Lia McCaffy, Seth Aframe, American Legion Auxiliary, Martha Madson (NH Bar Assoc.), NH Boy State, American Legion.
HB307: Representative Selig Information Only01:17:59.280 - 10:12:45 AM; Noted tight timeline to Nov 2026; suggested 2027. Lunell agreed, emphasizing ongoing responsibility like prior Bar commission. Supported annual reports, final less important than continuous resource for 160k students.
HB307: Representative Hall Information Only01:20:03.840 - 10:14:49 AM; Asked if commission develops curriculum or just content/framework/professional development to unify stakeholders. Lunell confirmed latter; title mentions curriculum but bill focuses on framework, filling advisory need per Gardner.
HB307: Representative Belchure Information Only01:20:55.840 - 10:15:41 AM; Sought clarification on bill language re: developing comprehensive civics curriculum framework. Lunell distinguished 'framework' from full curriculum.
HB307: Representative Baloney Information Only01:22:01.120 - 10:16:47 AM; Asked how this differs from 2022 NH Civics Commission (limited to NH Constitution textbook/curriculum; met 2024, no report filed online). Lunell noted limited scope vs. this bill's broader advisory role; suggested possible member overlap/evaluation for relevance/combination.
HB307: Representative D. Information Only01:24:27.120 - 10:19:13 AM; Questioned 3 teachers jointly appointed by unions among 11 members. Lunell explained unions represent most teachers, have expertise to nominate leaders like a civics educator from Henniker.
HB307: Representative Murray Information Only01:25:31.280 - 10:20:17 AM; Envisioned framework as thematic units/tools for interdisciplinary, optional implementation, not mandated. Lunell agreed: provides framework/tools, single contact for hands-on experiences like court trips. Murray added as repository for essential questions.
HB307: Melissa White, Division Director for Learner Support, Department of Education Information Only01:26:54.239 - 10:21:40 AM; Provided background on 2023 NH Civics Commission (established July 2023; 16 members incl. Chief Justice McDonald, Reps. Lad/Moffett, Sen. Ward; completed textbook/resources Aug 1, 2025; 78 K-12 lessons on Discovery Education's NH Constitution channel: free, accessible to all schools, 7,155 interactions/500 users since school year start. Most engaged: branches of govt, founding principles, citizenship, Revolution in NH, executive/judicial branches. Includes interactive interviews (e.g., McDonald), gaming, quizzes; professional development by Nancy Rose (e.g., SAU47/Jaffrey praised for planning ease, offline activities, sandbox/virtual capitol). Available via DOE website; final report to governor/leadership. Not weighing on new commission's need; just sharing existing results. Clarified channel free/separate from paid Discovery platform (currently funded, was COVID relief); distributed via Friday memos, supt. meetings, listservs, principals/teachers orgs. RSA focused on state constitution but covers history/heritage/principles/govt branches/symbols/rules/citizenship, building by grade. Offered links/report.
HB307: Representative Paul Information Only01:31:11.520 - 10:25:57 AM; Asked if Discovery resources make new commission unnecessary (small school list); White clarified NH Civics channel free/separate/accessible to all, unlike broader paid platform. Follow-up: commission could be different; White neutral, just providing info on prior results.
HB307: Representative Baloney Information Only01:32:56.320 - 10:27:42 AM; Requested report/link (not online per Lunell) and DOE site navigation help for lessons. White directed to Learner Support > Social Studies > NH Civics > Discovery resources.
HB307: Representative Cornell Information Only01:34:46.800 - 10:29:32 AM; Asked if program free; White confirmed NH channel free, separate from paid platform (currently free via budget). Clarified sandbox/interactives free for civics; other subjects paid/opt-in ($3k grants post-COVID). Distribution: memos, trainings, supt./regional meetings, principals/teachers lists.
HB307: Representative Murray Information Only01:37:44.880 - 10:32:30 AM; Asked if civics might charge later (implied); White: never for civics channel. Broader platform was COVID-funded, now budget-supported opt-in; open to public/charter/private for fee.
HB307: Representative Paul Information Only01:38:54.000 - 10:33:40 AM; Asked if actual curriculum document/textbook exists vs. modules. White: no single textbook but paper copies of 78 lessons (8/grade K-5, 15/set 6-8/9-12); commission developed, vendor packaged; includes competencies.
HB307: Representative Selig Information Only01:39:55.440 - 10:34:41 AM; Asked if current resources cover judiciary/other branches beyond constitution. White: yes, channel per RSA on constitution but includes govt branches (executive/judicial listed); covers history/principles/symbols/rules/citizenship by grade; offered link to review/augment.
HB307: Representative Belony Information Only01:43:15.280 - 10:38:01 AM; Confirmed commission completed report and dissolved after product.
HB307: Representative Woodcock Information Only01:43:15.280 - 10:38:01 AM; Sought clarity: current resources NH-focused; bill seems broader (national/federal govt, hands-on). White: unsure of bill intent but possibly.
HB307: Representative Cordell Information Only01:43:15.280 - 10:38:01 AM; Requested link/report.
HB307: Parental Rights Advocate (Amory Banfield) Oppose01:44:38.000 - 10:39:24 AM; The speaker opposes HB 307, arguing it puts the cart before the horse by developing new curriculum without first reviewing or updating outdated 2006 standards. They suggest existing curricula like 'We the People: The Citizen and the Constitution' or civiced.org materials could fit, as used in Massachusetts competitions. They emphasize that without testing, curriculum may not be taught effectively, and recommend creating standards, tests, and a list of aligned curricula to guide schools without mandating specifics. While supportive of improving civics literacy and appreciating the existing civics exam, they advocate starting with standards review. In response to a question, they suggest amending the bill to include updating standards, adding testing requirements, and recommending existing curricula.
HB1830: Representative Katie Patternell, Wolfboro and Tuftonboro Information Only03:07:30.319 - 12:02:16 PM; The representative introduces the bill on behalf of the absent sponsor, explaining it requires the Department of Education to establish a mandatory firearm safety training program for all public schools.
HB1830: Representative Timothy O'Brien, Durham Oppose03:08:30.800 - 12:03:16 PM; The representative opposes HB 1830FN, calling it unnecessary since schools can already teach gun safety. He criticizes the costs: $350,000 in FY2027 for curriculum development and over $100,000 annually for administration, plus unfunded mandates on schools. The bill specifies free materials but leaves other costs unclear and allows opt-out but suggests opt-in is better for the sensitive topic. He notes drafting errors excluding charter schools from reporting and omitting other public education forms. He mentions it's a repeat of a rejected 2025 amendment. In questions, he states general opposition to unfunded mandates, especially unnecessary ones with low-quality materials.
HB1830: Mary Wilson, retired assistant superintendent Oppose03:12:24.160 - 12:07:10 PM; Mary opposes the bill due to the onerous reporting requirement on lines 18-21, which adds costs for districts and schools to modify information systems to track and report student training numbers.
HB1830: Amory Banfield, parental rights advocate Oppose03:13:11.439 - 12:07:57 PM; Amory opposes the bill, arguing public schools are overburdened with mandates taking time from core subjects like reading, writing, and arithmetic. She dislikes the opt-out structure, forcing parental involvement, and suggests after-school opt-in programs instead, like the 'Be Bold' parent program in Bedford on drugs and alcohol. She advocates leaving parenting decisions to parents and avoiding piling more on schools, applying this consistently to all programs regardless of topic.
HB1830: Jerry Fu, New Hampshire Association of School Administrators Oppose03:16:48.960 - 12:11:34 PM; Jerry highlights the cumulative burden of curriculum additions, training, and assessments on schools, amid bans and expectations. He urges considering impacts on children: how much they can learn and retain in a limited school day, given their capacity. He asks the committee to deliberate on effects on kids' learning across all curriculum bills, emphasizing that children matter and high-quality results require focus on basics and accountability.
HB1830: Kathleen Sllover, Portsmouth Oppose03:19:53.920 - 12:14:39 PM; Kathleen urges voting ITL on HB 1830, arguing firearm safety is adults' responsibility, not children's. She cites research showing training ineffective against gunplay, with children often handling unsecured guns despite knowing better. She criticizes the Eddie Eagle program, noting its designer distanced herself and that firearms remain the leading cause of child deaths since 1988. She advocates training adults and parents instead. In questions, she mentions accessible programs like BSmart for secure storage and suicide prevention, plus Department of Defense resources, distributed via markets, schools, and law enforcement.
HB1830: Deborah House, President, American Federation of Teachers New Hampshire Oppose03:23:45.439 - 12:18:31 PM; Deborah House opposes HB 1830FN, viewing it as another mandate that imposes additional requirements on limited instructional time in schools. She emphasizes the need to prioritize core academic subjects and suggests that extracurricular activities or clubs would be more appropriate for such topics. House criticizes the specific program mentioned in the bill for lacking evidence of effectiveness in changing children's behavior regarding firearms, arguing that safe storage is an adult responsibility. She urges the committee to find the bill inexpedient to legislate.
HB1122 2026-0183H: Representative McFarland, Prime Sponsor Support03:35:23.920 - 12:30:09 PM; Representative McFarland introduces HB 1122 with amendment 2026-0183H, clarifying that it is not a mandate but promotes access to existing hunter education and firearm safety courses in schools, emphasizing local choice and parental opt-out options. He highlights the bill's focus on safety, including firearm handling, outdoor skills, first aid, and navigation, without requiring live fire, course passage for credits, or new curriculum. McFarland notes that New Hampshire law has allowed such instruction since 1953, and the bill leverages Pitman-Robertson federal funds to support these programs without using local education budgets. He addresses concerns about mandates, opt-outs, and funding, asserting it respects heritage and encourages outdoor engagement without imposing burdens.
HB1122 2026-0183H: Representative Spelain, Co-Sponsor Support04:05:00.800 - 12:59:46 PM; Representative Spelain supports HB 1122 to address declining hunting and fishing licenses by encouraging schools to offer hunter education programs, getting children outdoors and away from screens. He explains the flexibility in delivery, such as after-school clubs or weekends, without mandating hours or credits, and notes that Fish and Game can modify the curriculum for schools. Spelain addresses concerns about burdens on Fish and Game, emphasizing minimal requirements like approving curricula and volunteers (who undergo background checks), and highlights access to Pitman-Robertson funds to prevent loss of federal dollars back to the government. He stresses the program's focus on safety, first aid, and outdoor skills to boost long-term funding for Fish and Game.
HB1122 2026-0183H: Dr. Tim Broadick, Superintendent of Schools for Alton and Barnstead Information Only04:14:57.120 - 1:09:43 PM; Dr. Broadick provides information on how Alton and Barnstead schools already offer hunter safety, archery, and firearm safety through partnerships with nonprofits and Fish and Game, using opt-in models at no cost to the district. He describes spreading the 15-hour course over weeks for better retention, with off-site live fire at partnered facilities, and notes high demand with waiting lists. Broadick asserts that current law allows this without the bill, offering local control for electives aligned with community traditions, and commits to sharing guidance with the Department of Education to dispel perceptions of difficulty. He emphasizes competing with other education options by providing meaningful outdoor experiences.
HB1122 2026-0183H: Melissa Nemoth, Legal and Legislative Liaison, NH Fish and Game Department Oppose04:24:26.000 - 1:19:12 PM; Melissa Nemoth conveys the Fish and Game Commission's opposition to HB 1122, despite supporting the concept of expanding hunter education. She outlines concerns including expanded administrative burdens without resources, such as approving curricula variations, organizations, and volunteers; potential volunteer shortages; misalignment with voluntary program design allowing partial participation without certification; and complications with Pitman-Robertson funding eligibility, reporting, and audits. Nemoth notes that schools can already offer these programs, and the bill risks diluting program integrity.
HB1122 2026-0183H: Kathleen Slover, Portsmouth Oppose04:30:27.359 - 1:25:13 PM; Kathleen Slover opposes HB 1122, appreciating the intent to promote cultural heritage but questioning why hunting and firearm safety must be mandated in schools rather than expanded to include coastal activities like fishing and estuary education, as done in Portsmouth schools. She highlights local programs like beach cleanups, eco clubs, and bass fishing teams that foster stewardship without legislation. Slover argues that public schools should handle such initiatives locally through PTAs for better parent engagement and fundraising, reiterating that firearm safety is an adult responsibility, and recommends opposing the confusing bill.
HB1122 2026-0183H: Mary Wilson, Retired Assistant Superintendent Oppose04:33:41.919 - 1:28:27 PM; Mary Wilson opposes HB 1122, stating that schools and districts already have the capacity to offer these programs under existing law, making the bill unnecessary.
HB1122 2026-0183H: Ann Marie Banfield, Parental Rights Advocate Oppose04:34:45.680 - 1:29:31 PM; Amry Banfield opposes HB 1122 for adding burdens to school curricula, prioritizing academics and accountability over extracurriculars like hunter education. She advocates for opt-in models rather than opt-out, suggesting incorporation as high school electives if desired, and questions legislating such programs instead of letting local districts decide, as successful examples like in Bow show. Banfield supports getting kids off screens but prefers after-school or voluntary participation to avoid piling on teachers and schools.
HB1122 2026-0183H: Kyle Baker, New Hampshire Wildlife Federation, Concord Support04:37:15.599 - 1:32:01 PM; Kyle Baker supports HB 1122 in spirit, highlighting existing school involvement in outdoor activities like bass fishing teams and Joad archery programs. He emphasizes the importance of mentorship in hunting, fishing, and firearm safety education outside school hours. He mentions the New Hampshire Wildlife Federation's Let's Go Fishing program and scholarships for students. Baker suggests modifying RSA 194 to include language about approved hunter education courses, noting the funding from license sales matched by federal dollars that support wildlife conservation. He advocates for clarifying options for schools without mandates.
HB1122 2026-0183H: Fred Bird, Congressional Sportsman's Foundation Support04:42:15.200 - 1:37:01 PM; Fred Bird supports HB 1122, stressing the importance of connecting youth to outdoor activities to counter screen time. He shares personal experience with his children in Lee and notes that many kids are unaware of hunting and fishing opportunities unless offered through schools. He discusses R3 efforts (recruit, retain, reactivate) for hunters, the user-paid funding model via Pitman-Robertson and Dingell-Johnson acts, and how these fund conservation, habitat, and education. Bird highlights archery as a key hunting component and cites successful softer language in other states like Colorado and Michigan. He notes the post-COVID uptick in interest for self-sufficiency through hunting and fishing.
HB1122 2026-0183H: Adam Thompson, disabled veteran and former educator, Nashua Oppose04:48:22.958 - 1:43:08 PM; Adam Thompson opposes HB 1122, arguing it reads like a postsecondary course unsuitable for K-12 mandate. He acknowledges the value of hunter education and conservation but believes it fits better in opt-in settings or under Fish and Game. He urges finding it inexpedient to legislate, emphasizing that just because something is possible doesn't mean it should be forced into the curriculum.
HB1122 2026-0183H: Tracy Bricky, Chair of Mascoma Valley School District, Penacook Oppose04:50:16.878 - 1:45:02 PM; Tracy Bricky opposes HB 1122, sharing her perspective as school district chair facing budget constraints. She notes that opportunities for such programs already exist for districts that can afford them and urges opposition to avoid additional burdens on taxpayers and schools.
HB1834: Representative Tony Weinstein, Rockingham District 10 Support04:59:54.560 - 1:54:40 PM; Representative Weinstein introduces HB 1834 to cap Education Freedom Accounts (EFAs) at current levels for one year, preventing automatic 25% growth. He highlights the program's rapid expansion from 5,321 students ($28M) in 2024-25 to 10,510 ($52M) this year, amid decreasing state revenues. He notes the cap isn't true due to priority admissions and auto-increase, and data shows a shift from low-income families (39% to 19%). The bill pauses expansion for assessment, promoting fiscal responsibility without eliminating the program.
HB1834: David Trumbull, town of Ware Oppose05:11:05.840 - 2:05:51 PM; David Trumbull opposes the bill but argues against the uncapped EFA program, citing three main reasons: cost overruns, lack of choice, and constitutional issues. He notes the program has ballooned from $3 million to over $60 million due to eligibility expansion beyond low-income families, yet few actual school switchers (less than 10%, averaging two per school statewide) result in no savings for public schools and drain the education trust fund meant for public education per the Claremont decision. On choice, he highlights disparities: only 9% of EFA students get special ed add-ons (vs. 21% in public schools), and ELL students are negligible (0-0.1% vs. 5% statewide), plus EFA participants waive due process rights. Constitutionally, the state has no duty to fund private education, only public schools, so capping or eliminating the program is permissible. During Q&A, he clarifies no budgetary savings from switchers, compares to families moving out, explains Supreme Court rulings (Carson/Montana) don't mandate funding private schools but prohibit religious discrimination if funded, and a numerical cap wouldn't violate that as it's budgetary, not discriminatory.
HB1834: Matt Sutherton, Children's Scholarship Fund Information Only05:22:22.718 - 2:17:08 PM; Matt Sutherton provides neutral technical guidance on HB 1834 FN, requesting clarification on three areas assuming the bill acts as a 'pause': 1) Impact on current 10,588 enrolled students—would it affect their funding or require exiting procedures? 2) Whether it pauses priority groups or only non-priority students. 3) Handling of the 874 waitlisted students, including communication to families. No position taken on the bill.
HB1834: Mary Wilky, Concrete Oppose05:24:38.638 - 2:19:24 PM; Mary Wilky, a retired public school teacher, opposes expanding the uncapped EFA program and supports pausing it due to inadequate oversight. She criticizes the EFA legislative oversight committee for not meeting until late November despite a November 30 report deadline, preventing recommendations; early spending reports were unavailable or removed until recently. A 2022 performance audit by the legislative budget assistant remains pending with expected findings this spring, facing roadblocks. As a taxpayer, she urges pausing the rapidly growing expensive program to ensure accountability on fund usage and student outcomes before further expansion.
HB1716: Representative Tracy Bricky, Merrimack District 15 Support05:28:25.040 - 2:23:11 PM; Representative Tracy Bricky, a 35-year public school educator and school board member, supports HB 1716 FN to enhance accountability for EFA funds without new evaluation methods. She respects differing views on public education but notes unsubstantiated claims of EFA superiority despite five years of public investment. The bill clarifies and tightens the existing portfolio option under RSA 194-F:3, III(d) for demonstrating student growth (via standardized tests, statewide assessments, or certified teacher-reviewed portfolios), requiring consistent, transparent reporting by qualified educators. This ensures real data over anecdotes for comparing outcomes, applying public education stewardship standards to taxpayer EFA funds for fairness and responsibility. During Q&A, she clarifies it's a reporting mechanism, not enforcement or regulation of learning sources, focused on documenting progress.
HB1716: Nate Green, Department of Education Information Only05:34:37.120 - 2:29:23 PM; Nate Green offers technical guidance on HB 1716 FN. On evaluating 'sources of learning' in portfolios (lines 24-28), interpretation matters: if just developing/maintaining the rubric, no regulation; if DOE evaluates directly, it could imply oversight of homeschool sources, but he's unclear without specifics. On differentiated aid, no data ties it to academic gains in EFA vs. public schools.
HB1716: Matt Sutherton, Children's Scholarship Fund Information Only05:37:28.558 - 2:32:14 PM; Matt Sutherton provides neutral technical guidance on HB 1716 FN, questioning page 1, line 18: Would requiring certified teachers to report evaluations directly to the Department remove the need to send scores to the Children's Scholarship Fund, and would all materials (evaluation, evidence) go to the Department instead? No position on the bill.
HB1716: David Trumbull, town of Ware Support05:38:00.878 - 2:32:46 PM; David Trumbull supports HB 1716, arguing it is a common-sense measure to require evidence of the Education Freedom Account (EFA) program's effectiveness. He references Professor Josh Cowen's long-term studies showing that students switching to private schools declined by half a grade, comparable to losses from COVID or Katrina. He emphasizes the need for transparency since public funds are involved, noting the lack of accessible information on EFAs compared to public schools. He criticizes the program's design to obscure data and supports requiring certified teachers to submit portfolios meeting DOE rubrics for accountability, ideally combined with tests.
HB1716: Mary Wilkey, retired public school teacher Support05:46:32.000 - 2:41:18 PM; Mary Wilkey, a retired public school teacher, supports the bill based on her experience reviewing a homeschool portfolio 30 years ago without state guidance, which made her uncomfortable. She highlights the lack of standards for what homeschoolers should achieve, such as curriculum alignment. She appreciates the bill's proposed DOE rubric to provide fidelity and guidance for certified teachers evaluating portfolios, ensuring reliability when used as the sole measure. She discusses challenges in addressing underperforming students, noting the burden on public schools when EFA students return behind grade level, and the need for clear protocols.
HB1264: Representative Peggy Balbone, towns of Greenland, Northampton, and Rye Support05:52:18.400 - 2:47:04 PM; Representative Peggy Balbone, the prime sponsor, introduces HB 1264 to address the lack of accountability in the expanding EFA program, which grew from serving low-income families to universal eligibility, costing taxpayers $52 million for 10,510 students, 85% never in public schools. The oversight committee failed to meet for a year while expansions occurred despite opposition. The bill mandates monthly meetings, posts agendas/minutes/reports on the DOE website, and live broadcasts on the General Court site to ensure transparency and public scrutiny of fund usage without academic assessments.
HB1264: Representative Stephanie Grund, Hillsboro District 34, town of Amherst, Sagen Cooperative School Board member Support06:06:37.600 - 3:01:23 PM; Representative Stephanie Grund supports HB 1264, emphasizing that EFAs use public funds like public education, which requires accountability for spending on quality programs ensuring competencies. School boards continuously review curriculum, budgets, policies, manifests, and student outcomes for integrity. The bill's changes ensure EFA oversight similar to public schools, addressing gaps in monitoring like credentialing and financials, preventing compromised integrity.
HB1264: David Trumbull, town of Ware Support06:09:12.160 - 3:03:58 PM; David Trumbull supports HB 1264, invoking RSA 91A and Article 8 of the NH Constitution for public access to government proceedings. He views the oversight committee as the state's school board for the EFA program, now serving 10,000 students like a large district such as Manchester. He criticizes infrequent meetings and lack of live streaming, contrasting with thousands of accessible local school board meetings. He suggests regular meetings every 2-3 months if monthly is excessive, using aggregate data for oversight like local boards.
HB1264: Matt Sutherton, Director of Policy and Compliance, Children's Scholarship Fund Oppose06:11:04.718 - 3:05:50 PM; Matt Sutherton opposes HB 1264 due to its expansion of legislative oversight, raising concerns about scope, student data access (financial, special education), needing statutory definitions for aggregate data, standards, and handling to protect privacy. He distinguishes oversight from administration, noting DOE's compliance monitoring, and questions a political body second-guessing eligibility. He explains reports were created voluntarily for transparency but removed due to safety concerns for domestic abuse program participants, balancing legal requirements to list providers. He highlights polarization, parents' hesitancy to share data, and the need for clear statutory assurances. He confirms annual compliance monitoring in four areas: eligibility, expenses, records, and provider compliance.

Noble, Kristin(Chairman)(R)[A+]2025	Drye, Margaret(Clerk)(R)[B+]2025	Peternel, Katy(V Chairman)(R)[A]2025
Cornell, Patricia(D)[F]2025	Freeman, Lisa(R)[B+]2025	Belcher, Mike(R)[B+]2025
Hall, Muriel(D)[CT]2025	Terry, Paul(R)[B+]2025	McDonnell, Valerie(R)[B+]2025
Selig, Loren(D)[D-]2025	Balboni, Peggy(D)[CT]2025	Murray, Megan(D)[CT]2025
Tenczar, Jeffrey(R)[B+]2025	Litchfield, Melissa(R)[B+]2025	Woodcock, Stephen(D)[F]2025
Kluger, Lee Ann(D)[F]2025	Snodgrass, Jim(D)[F]2025	Nadeau, Brian(R)[B+]2025