Committee Summary for House Education Policy and Administration (01/27/2025)

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
HB129 00:03:42.360 - 9:02:58 AM	Public Hearing	relative to the definition of the term "evidence-based" within public education.	Belcher, Mike(R)[B+]2025
HCR6 01:07:05.760 - 10:06:21 AM	Public Hearing	calling for the removal of the superintendent of school administrative unit 67.	Belcher, Mike(R)[B+]2025
HB208 01:53:25.960 - 10:52:41 AM	Public Hearing	relative to certification requirements for school nurses.	Edwards, Jess(R)[B+]2025
HB68 03:04:35.960 - 12:03:51 PM	Public Hearing	making best interest placements within the same school district mandatory in the absence of a valid reason to deny the placement.	Layon, Erica(R)[A+]2025
HB384 04:14:14.840 - 1:13:30 PM	Executive Session	prohibiting bullying in schools.	Leishman, Peter(D)[D-]2025
HCR6 04:15:03.560 - 1:14:19 PM	Executive Session	calling for the removal of the superintendent of school administrative unit 67.	Belcher, Mike(R)[B+]2025
HB71 04:16:53.840 - 1:16:09 PM	Executive Session	(Third New Title) prohibiting school facilities from being used to provide shelter for aliens; relative to department of health and human services contracts; and requiring the use of public notices before reassessment of property values for tax purposes.	Harvey-Bolia, Juliet(R)[A-]2025
HB129 04:35:00.639 - 1:34:16 PM	Executive Session	relative to the definition of the term "evidence-based" within public education.	Belcher, Mike(R)[B+]2025

HB129: Representative Mike Beler, Carroll County District 4, Wakefield Support00:03:42.360 - 9:02:58 AM; Representative Beler introduced HB129, which aims to refine the definition of 'evidence-based' within public education. He highlighted that the current federal definition lacks specificity about what constitutes 'evidence', leading to issues where subjective surveys are given equal weight to objective studies. Beler emphasized that his bill focuses on ensuring that teaching methods are supported by objective, scientific evidence rather than subjective data. He clarified that the bill pertains to pedagogy, not subject matter, and could lead to improved student learning and cost savings by reducing the adoption of educational fads. He addressed potential costs in the fiscal note but suggested they would be minimal as the Department of Education is already involved in similar activities. In response to questions, Beler explained that the bill targets policies at the school board and state level, not individual classroom practices, and discussed the importance of falsifiability in scientific methods.
HB129: Representative Woodcock Information Only00:09:07.000 - 9:08:23 AM; Representative Woodcock inquired about the fiscal note and the differentiation between pedagogy and subject matter. Beler responded that the bill affects how subjects are taught, not what is taught, using the example of reading methods like queuing versus phonics.
HB129: Representative Selig Information Only00:12:56.160 - 9:12:12 AM; Representative Selig asked how the bill would impact individual classroom practices. Beler clarified that the bill does not apply to individual teachers, focusing instead on broader policies set by school boards and the state.
HB129: Representative Freeman Information Only00:15:40.399 - 9:14:56 AM; Representative Freeman questioned if state standardized testing could be considered a scientific study. Beler replied that while the testing itself is not a study, it could be used as part of a broader scientific study.
HB129: Representative Cornell Information Only00:18:46.600 - 9:18:02 AM; Representative Cornell expressed concern about the bill's potential impact on individual teachers and whether it might lead to insubordination if teachers deviated from district policies. Beler reassured that the bill does not affect individual teacher conduct codes.
HB129: Representative Damon Information Only00:24:14.640 - 9:23:30 AM; Representative Damon asked how the bill would affect research processes, particularly with students involved in public school systems. Beler responded that the bill does not restrict research but suggested that any significant departure from accepted practices should be supported by preliminary evidence.
HB129: Representative McDonald Information Only00:29:35.240 - 9:28:51 AM; Representative McDonald clarified if the bill would prevent students from taking surveys, to which Beler confirmed that it would not, but it would prevent such surveys from being considered evidence-based.
HB129: Ann Marie Banfield, Parental Rights Advocate Support00:30:29.159 - 9:29:45 AM; Amry Banfield, a parental rights advocate and math tutor, supported HB129, sharing her experiences with ineffective teaching methods. She criticized the reliance on inquiry-based learning and project-based learning, arguing that these methods marginalize teachers and necessitate private tutoring, which not all families can afford. Banfield referenced the Althiea Society's position statement criticizing the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) for not adhering to rigorous research standards. She emphasized the need for evidence-based teaching methods to improve classroom instruction and student outcomes, and provided examples of how current practices fail students, particularly in math education.
HB129: Beler, unidentified organization Support00:53:29.520 - 9:52:45 AM; Beler began their testimony by humorously referencing not wanting to cause an earthquake with their words. They provided foundational facts about an incident that led to the resolution, distributing media articles for further detail. Beler argued that the state has the authority to remove office holders in both state and local government, citing the state's Constitution and judicial precedents. They emphasized that the resolution seeks removal for cause, pointing out the politicization of the superintendent's position and the adoption of rules by the locality that contravened state authority. They highlighted the inappropriate application of school rules to adult citizens protesting government actions, arguing that such rules cannot legally restrict free speech. Beler also criticized the severe punishment of parents, including a total prohibition from school grounds, as excessive and politically motivated, aimed at chilling speech. They concluded by asserting the state's historical and constitutional duty to act when citizens' rights are violated by office holders created by the state.
HB129: Representative Hall, unidentified district Information Only00:58:58.640 - 9:58:14 AM; Representative Hall inquired about any pushback Beler received at the Office of the Speaker or elsewhere regarding the bill, given its specific targeting of an individual and its current status in the courts. Beler responded that there were difficulties in understanding the legal and constitutional basis for the bill but clarified its classification as a bill of address.
HB129: Representative Sik, unidentified district Information Only00:59:46.359 - 9:59:02 AM; Representative Sik questioned Beler's motivation for the bill, noting Beler's lack of direct connection to the district or school in question. Beler argued that as state representatives, they have a duty to intervene when citizens' rights are violated anywhere in the state, emphasizing the state's oversight role over local government.
HB129: Representative NATO, unidentified district Information Only01:01:26.480 - 10:00:42 AM; Representative NATO attempted to discuss a related but different topic concerning sports and physical ability, which was ruled out of order. They then asked if the parent's freedom of speech was relevant to the bill. Beler confirmed that freedoms under the First Amendment and the New Hampshire Constitution, including speech and the right to petition, were implicated.
HB129: Representative Woodcock, unidentified district Information Only01:02:05.960 - 10:01:21 AM; Representative Woodcock questioned the appropriateness of state intervention in local school board decisions regarding hiring and firing superintendents, citing their long experience in education. Beler acknowledged the argument but maintained that the state has the authority to intervene when local actions deprive citizens of their rights, citing historical precedent.
HB129: Representative Damon, unidentified district Information Only01:04:45.960 - 10:04:01 AM; Representative Damon expressed concern about the precedent set by the resolution, particularly regarding state involvement in local hiring and firing. Beler hoped for such a precedent to allow state intervention in cases where office holders, including appointed employees, deprive citizens of liberties. They clarified the distinction between elected and appointed office holders and affirmed the state's authority to act on petitions that meet necessary thresholds.
HCR6: Freeman, unidentified district Information Only01:07:05.760 - 10:06:21 AM; Freeman responds to a question from a representative regarding the state's involvement in school board matters. He clarifies that while he is not aware of any direct state involvement in the removal of school personnel, school boards operate under state government, suggesting there would be no legal or constitutional issue with pursuing such action under a bill of address as per the New Hampshire Constitution.
HCR6: Jerry Fu, Associate Executive Director, New Hampshire School Administrators Association Oppose01:08:45.040 - 10:08:01 AM; Jerry Fu opposes HCR6, arguing that it is not the legislature's responsibility to adjudicate free speech or to interfere with the hiring and firing decisions of local school boards. He emphasizes that the local school board should handle such matters based on their knowledge and the specific policies of the school district. He believes that the resolution exceeds the legislature's responsibility and undermines local school district authority.
HCR6: Clement Madden, Dunbarton School Board Chair and member of SAU67 Board Oppose01:11:53.280 - 10:11:09 AM; Clement Madden, representing Dunbarton, opposes HCR6, questioning the legislature's authority to interfere in a lawfully executed contract between SAU67 and its superintendent. He cites RSA 194-C:5, III, which gives the SAU board authority over personnel decisions without legislative oversight. He criticizes the bill for attempting to influence an ongoing federal court case and for lacking understanding of the incidents involved. He supports Superintendent Marcy Kelly, praising her comprehensive job performance and handling of a unique protest situation, urging the committee to reject the bill.
HCR6: Marcy Kelly, resident of Sanbornton, NH, and Superintendent of SAU 67 serving Bow and Dunbarton Oppose01:21:20.239 - 10:20:36 AM; Marcy Kelly strongly opposed HCR6, arguing it represents a significant overreach by the state legislature and threatens the principle of local control in New Hampshire's education system. She emphasized that school leadership decisions should remain with locally elected school boards, not dictated by state-level political pressures. Kelly highlighted her role in creating a safe, respectful, and supportive environment for students, free from political agendas. She urged the committee to reject HCR6 to preserve trust and autonomy in local communities, focusing on students' needs rather than political motivations.
HCR6: Dean Cascaden, former Superintendent of SAU67, now retired Oppose01:24:35.199 - 10:23:51 AM; Dean Cascaden opposed HCR6, stating that Marcy Kelly made the right decision in the incident in question and did not violate constitutional rights. He referenced the Tinker case to differentiate between students' political expression and the behavior of parents at a sports event, which he described as a limited public forum where speech can be regulated to prevent disruption. Cascaden praised Kelly's actions to protect a student from potential bullying and criticized the state legislature's attempt to interfere with local control over superintendent decisions.
HCR6: Adam Osborne, Principal and Administrator in Bow Oppose01:29:59.520 - 10:29:15 AM; Adam Osborne opposed HCR6, emphasizing the importance of local control in public schooling and expressing his admiration for Marcy Kelly's character and conviction. He argued that the state legislature overstepping into local school matters is akin to federal interference in state affairs, which would be unacceptable. Osborne supported Kelly's actions in defending students, stating that if there is an error, it should be on the side of protecting children.
HCR6: Jacqueline Co, resident of Bow and superintendent in a neighboring town Oppose01:36:54.880 - 10:36:10 AM; Jacqueline Co opposed HCR6, viewing it as an attempt to usurp local control. As a resident of Bow, she supports the actions of Superintendent Kelly and the school board in protecting children. She stressed the roles of the school board in setting policy, establishing a budget, and hiring and firing the superintendent, underscoring the importance of these local decisions.
HCR6: Robert Malay, resident of Keene, NH, originally from Bow, and Superintendent in Keene Oppose01:37:51.320 - 10:37:07 AM; Robert Malay opposed HCR6, urging the committee to kill the resolution. As a colleague of Marcy Kelly and a member of the NHIAA council, he supported her actions to protect children at school events, drawing from his own experiences in Keene. He highlighted the long-standing review of transgender issues by NHIAA and the need to maintain a safe environment for young athletes, free from harassment or retaliation.
HCR6: Judith Goodno, resident of Bow, NH Support01:40:21.880 - 10:39:37 AM; Judith Goodno expressed support for Marcy, emphasizing the community's backing. She highlighted the lack of a fiscal note in the bill and pointed out the practical implication that the School Board would need to spend money to find a new superintendent should Marcy be removed. As a long-term resident of Bow, she stated their full support for Marcy.
HCR6: Michael Bassette, resident of Bow, NH Support01:41:30.440 - 10:40:46 AM; Michael Bassette spoke in support of Marcy Kelly, emphasizing her qualities as a superintendent. He raised concerns about constitutional law, specifically the due process clauses under the Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments, and the Sixth Amendment's right to a fair trial. He argued that Marcy is currently involved in an unsettled federal court case and should not be publicly shamed or humiliated without due process. He criticized the resolution for potentially ignoring other constitutional rights while focusing on one, urging the committee to consider the broader implications of their decision.
HB208: Representative Jess Edwards, representing Auburn, Candia, Chester, and Deerfield, NH Support01:53:25.960 - 10:52:41 AM; Representative Jess Edwards introduced House Bill 208, explaining that the bill was drafted in response to a request from a school board to help address challenges in hiring school nurses. He detailed how the bill would modify existing law to make hiring more flexible by allowing for experience in acute or chronic care and prioritizing pediatric settings without compromising professional standards. He also mentioned a tweak to consider aptitude and potential, aiming to create a merit-based system for hiring school nurses. Edwards noted that these changes were discussed with the School Nurse Association and were seen as mutually beneficial.
HB208: Unnamed Speaker Information Only01:59:23.320 - 10:58:39 AM; The speaker expresses confusion about the changes in the proposed bill, specifically questioning how changing the language from 'current experience in pediatric nursing or other related nursing areas' to 'a priority in pediatric settings' would affect the qualifications. They sought clarification on whether this change implies a shift in requirements or merely a change in emphasis.
HB208: Representative Woodcock Information Only02:00:09.560 - 10:59:25 AM; Representative Woodcock seeks clarification on whether the speaker was referring to the local school board or the Department of Education when discussing licensing criteria. The response confirms it was meant to be the Department of Education criteria, highlighting issues faced by schools when hiring due to these criteria.
HB208: Unnamed Speaker Information Only02:00:54.920 - 11:00:10 AM; The speaker inquires about the School Nurses Association's presence and the definition of 'acute care' in a healthcare context, which was clarified as immediate, emergent care as opposed to chronic care. This was in response to concerns about the qualifications and skills of school nurses.
HB208: Unnamed Speaker Information Only02:02:26.360 - 11:01:42 AM; The speaker questions the removal of the word 'profession' from a line about leadership in nursing practice, explaining that it was done to simplify the sentence and clarify that it represents a single requirement rather than additive ones.
HB208: Sean Thomas, representing New Hampshire School Nurses Association from Concord, NH Support02:03:19.880 - 11:02:35 AM; Sean Thomas, representing the New Hampshire School Nurses Association, supports HB208, describing it as an improvement to the certification process that addresses the nursing shortage by adding flexibility while maintaining standards. He mentions the bill's origin from discussions with Representative Edwards and the Auburn Village School, emphasizing the importance of high-quality healthcare in schools and the role of the certification program established since 2016 in response to concerns about the quality of school nurses. Thomas also acknowledges the ongoing need for adjustments to the certification due to the nursing shortage, especially post-COVID.
HB208: Representative Damon Information Only02:04:24.440 - 11:03:40 AM; Representative Damon asks if the Nurses Association has other suggestions to address the shortage of school nurses. Sean Thomas responds by discussing the history of the certification program and the ongoing efforts to tweak it to meet the evolving needs and shortages in nursing, while emphasizing the importance of maintaining high standards.
HB208: Representative Woodcock Information Only02:06:41.639 - 11:05:57 AM; Representative Woodcock seeks confirmation on the Nurses Association's position regarding the Department of Education's certification requirement. Sean Thomas confirms their support for the requirement, highlighting the importance of maintaining high standards in school nursing.
HB208: Representative Bon Information Only02:06:49.440 - 11:06:05 AM; Representative Bon expressed concerns about the language on lines 2 and 3 of the bill, questioning the significance of the change it proposes. They discussed how the amendment would allow hiring individuals with acute or chronic care experience, not specifically pediatric experience, which could broaden the pool of applicants for school nurse positions. This could help in advertising and attracting more candidates to the school nurse roles.
HB208: Representative Hall Information Only02:08:30.400 - 11:07:46 AM; Representative Hall questioned the term 'priority' in the context of the bill, asking for clarification on whether it means that pediatric experience is mandatory or just preferred. They also inquired about the difference between licensure and certification requirements for school nurses, noting that it might be more challenging for districts to hire due to the dual licensing requirements.
HB208: Representative Cornell Information Only02:10:05.599 - 11:09:21 AM; Representative Cornell highlighted the difficulty districts face in hiring school nurses due to certification and licensure requirements. They mentioned a shortage in Manchester, suggesting that the current certification process and the nursing shortage exacerbate the issue. They questioned whether the proposed changes in the bill would alleviate these hiring challenges.
HB208: Representative C Information Only02:11:37.559 - 11:10:53 AM; Representative C asked if the bill would allow a newly graduated nurse with internship or rotation experience to be hired as a school nurse. They were unsure if the bill addresses this scenario and suggested that the Department of Education might provide clarity on this issue.
HB208: Representative Damon Information Only02:12:24.000 - 11:11:40 AM; Representative Damon sought clarification on the proposed language in the bill, specifically line 23, which would allow hiring candidates with acute or chronic care experience over pediatric experience, with priority given to those with pediatric experience. They confirmed this interpretation with Representative Edwards.
HB208: Steven Appleby, Auburn, NH Department of Education Information Only02:13:59.920 - 11:13:15 AM; Steven Appleby from the NH Department of Education discussed the current statutory language being restrictive for school nurse certification. He explained that the proposed changes would make it less restrictive, allowing nurses with experience in areas like retirement homes to be considered for school nurse positions. He also addressed questions about the impact of previous changes to certification requirements and the potential for new graduates to qualify as school nurses under the bill.
HB208: Representative Freeman Information Only02:16:35.240 - 11:15:51 AM; Representative Freeman asked about the impact of the educational requirements for school nurses, specifically the grandfathering in of associate degree nurses and the requirement to complete a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing within six years. Appleby responded that the requirement was not seen as overly prohibitive, but some individuals struggled to complete the degree within the timeframe.
HB208: Representative Hall Information Only02:18:06.398 - 11:17:22 AM; Representative Hall revisited the issue of nurses from non-pediatric settings, like nursing homes, seeking certification. They questioned how the bill's language regarding priority within pediatric settings would affect these nurses. Appleby indicated that the new language would be less restrictive, suggesting it would allow more flexibility in hiring.
HB208: Representative Woodcock Information Only02:18:52.478 - 11:18:08 AM; Representative Woodcock sought clarification on the term 'priority' in the bill, questioning whether it was a requirement or just a preference for hiring. Appleby explained that 'priority' does not mean 'must' or 'shall,' suggesting it offers more flexibility in hiring decisions.
HB68: Representative Erica Layon Rockingham - District 13 Support03:04:35.960 - 12:03:51 PM; Representative Erica Leon from Derry, NH, introduced House Bill 68, emphasizing its simplicity and purpose. The bill mandates best interest placements within the same school district unless there is a valid reason to deny the placement. Leon shared an example from Derry, where students were moved due to school closure and expressed that such moves should be easier for parents to request, especially in cases where students have established relationships with teachers or face other issues like bullying. She highlighted the lack of repercussions when superintendents do not follow the current law and proposed that the bill would ensure a more automatic 'yes' to such requests, thereby simplifying the process and enhancing student options within the district.
HB68: Damon Information Only03:09:15.200 - 12:08:31 PM; Damon inquired if the bill would change student access to approved private schools within the district. The response clarified that the bill's intention is to only impact public schools within the district, and an oversight in the language regarding private schools was acknowledged, with a commitment to amend the bill to remove references to approved private schools but retain public academies like Pinkerton.
HB68: Representative SEL Information Only03:10:48.200 - 12:10:04 PM; Representative SEL asked about the impact of the bill on districts with only one school. It was explained that there would be no impact on such districts as the bill pertains to moving between IND district schools, which is not applicable if there's only one school. The discussion included the specific situation in Derry, where changes to school configurations necessitated the bill.
HB68: Representative Lichfield Information Only03:11:33.399 - 12:10:49 PM; Representative Lichfield asked about managing an abundance of fourth graders unhappy with their school situation. The response suggested leaving the decision to the districts, possibly implementing a first-in-first-out or lottery system for fairness and equity.
HB68: Representative Woodcock Information Only03:12:20.479 - 12:11:36 PM; Representative Woodcock followed up on the issue of private schools mentioned in the bill, confirming that an amendment would be filed to remove approved private schools from the bill's language, while keeping public academies. The discussion highlighted the importance of equity for students in different sending towns.
HB68: Representative Information Only03:13:55.439 - 12:13:11 PM; The representative questioned the necessity of an RSA telling local school boards how to manage their schools. The response emphasized the need for flexibility and accommodation of students, particularly in light of a mental health crisis and bullying issues, suggesting that allowing students to change schools could be beneficial.
HB68: Representative Freeman Support03:15:32.279 - 12:14:48 PM; Representative Freeman supported the bill, noting their experience on the school board where parents' requests for school changes were often refused without explanation. The bill aims to address the lack of transparency and ensure that superintendents provide reasons for rejecting school change requests.
HB68: Representative Litfield Information Only03:16:26.720 - 12:15:42 PM; Representative Litfield clarified the bill's requirements for superintendents to provide written reasons for rejecting school change requests within 10 days. The discussion also covered transportation responsibilities, which remain with the parents, and the potential for better student outcomes with school choice.
HB68: Representative Terry Information Only03:19:32.239 - 12:18:48 PM; Representative Terry inquired about the potential number of families and students that might benefit from the bill. The response suggested that while exact numbers are unknown due to fear of speaking out, the bill could significantly impact districts with multiple schools, potentially signaling schools needing attention.
HB68: Representative Damon Information Only03:22:38.479 - 12:21:54 PM; Representative Damon asked about other legitimate reasons a school change request could be declined besides capacity issues. The response was that while specific reasons were not listed, the bill requires superintendents to share reasons with parents and the school board, allowing for appeals if needed.
HB68: Dr. Lon Support03:24:10.560 - 12:23:26 PM; Dr. Lon supported the bill, emphasizing the importance of education and the historical context of educational choices in New Hampshire. He highlighted the need for flexibility in education to meet diverse student needs, citing personal experiences and the value of parental involvement in school choice decisions.
HB68: Deborah How Information Only03:30:27.120 - 12:29:43 PM; Deborah How appeared to be ready to testify but the transcript ends before her testimony is provided.
HB68: Deborah House, American Federation of Teachers New Hampshire Oppose03:30:36.600 - 12:29:52 PM; Deborah House, president of the American Federation of Teachers New Hampshire, spoke in opposition to HB68. She argued that the bill does not account for the unequal educational opportunities within and across New Hampshire school districts. House highlighted that some schools concentrate specific academic and behavioral support services in certain buildings, and automatic transfers could disrupt these services. She expressed concerns about the bill's short timeline for superintendents to respond to transfer requests and the lack of collaboration between parents and districts to resolve issues before considering transfers. House also mentioned potential unfunded mandates and the impact on smaller neighborhood schools, where moving students could mean losing individualized support. She suggested that without equal educational opportunities across all schools, the bill could lead to unintended negative consequences.
HB68: Unnamed Speaker Information Only03:39:16.399 - 12:38:32 PM; An unnamed speaker responded to questions from representatives. They discussed the potential impact of HB68 on smaller neighborhood schools, suggesting that moving students could result in them losing access to concentrated support services. They also addressed concerns about Title One funding, noting that moving a student to a non-Title One school could reduce the level of support the student receives. In response to a question about different curricula within districts, the speaker mentioned they were unaware of such a practice at the elementary level but noted that high schools sometimes offer different classes. The speaker also discussed the challenges of the 10-day turnaround time specified in the bill for communicating decisions and the importance of defining 'valid reason' more clearly.
HB68: Jerry F, New Hampshire School Administrators Association Information Only03:44:08.399 - 12:43:24 PM; Jerry F, the Associated Executive Director of the New Hampshire School Administrators Association, provided insights into the potential implications of HB68. He highlighted concerns about the word 'shall' in the bill, suggesting it leaves little discretion for decision-making. Jerry discussed the challenge of defining a 'valid reason' for transferring a student, using the example of a regional school district where transferring a student from one town to another within the district could disrupt classroom dynamics. He emphasized the need for more direction on what constitutes a valid reason and stressed the importance of collaboration with parents. Jerry also addressed the 10-day timeframe for decisions, stating it's feasible but stressed the need for clearer definitions in the bill.
HB68: Unnamed Speaker Information Only03:47:17.439 - 12:46:33 PM; An unnamed speaker responded to questions from representatives about potential student privacy issues and the impact of multiple school transfers on student learning. They expressed concerns about privacy if superintendents were compelled to disclose sensitive information about classroom dynamics or student needs to justify transfer decisions. The speaker also discussed the disruptive effects of multiple school transfers on student achievement and classroom dynamics, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of the timing and frequency of transfers as outlined in HB68.
HB68: Representative Litfield Information Only03:50:15.399 - 12:49:31 PM; Representative Litfield asked for clarification on whether setting certain parameters around the timing of a change in school choice policy would be beneficial. They expressed understanding of the pros and cons of the policy, and noted the testimony of someone who supports school choice within the public school system, indicating a preference to support such initiatives.
HB68: Unnamed Speaker (Superintendent) Information Only03:51:01.040 - 12:50:17 PM; The speaker, identified as a superintendent, responded to Representative Litfield's question by emphasizing the importance of local decision-making. They shared an example of accepting a high school transfer due to a bullying incident after the first quarter, illustrating flexibility within local policies. The speaker suggested that local decision-making can effectively handle such situations.
HB384: Vice Chairman Information Only04:14:14.840 - 1:13:30 PM; The Vice Chairman discussed the need to hold HB384 and consider it alongside two other recently introduced bills on bullying. They suggested having a work session to discuss the three bills and address concerns raised about some provisions in HB384.
HCR6: Unnamed Speaker Information Only04:15:03.560 - 1:14:19 PM; The speaker mentioned missing some of the testimony on HCR6, particularly regarding court cases, and expressed the need to conduct further research into the legal ramifications of a House Concurrent Resolution. They requested to hold the executive session on HCR6 until more information is gathered.
HCR6: Representative Hall Information Only04:16:05.880 - 1:15:21 PM; Representative Hall confirmed with the chair that holding HCR6 was for the purpose of gathering more research and not for making a decision at that time.
HB71: Representative NATO Support04:16:53.840 - 1:16:09 PM; Representative NATO moved to pass HB71, emphasizing safety concerns for children and staff in schools regarding potential dangers such as drugs, weapons, viruses, and diseases. They highlighted the need to consider what may be brought into schools.
HB71: Unnamed Speaker Oppose04:17:38.880 - 1:16:54 PM; An unnamed speaker opposed the passage of HB71, arguing that schools are often used as emergency shelters during weather events and questioned the relevance of safety concerns when children are not in school. They also pointed out the high cost to the state and potential violation of federal civil rights laws, as the bill might exclude non-citizens, including legal residents and refugees, from emergency shelters.
HB71: Representative Woodcock Oppose04:19:58.399 - 1:19:14 PM; Representative Woodcock raised concerns about the bill's prohibition on using schools as emergency shelters, especially during the summer when some schools are available. They questioned why all schools could not be utilized for emergency purposes, regardless of who is seeking shelter.
HB71: Representative Morris Information Only04:20:29.840 - 1:19:45 PM; Representative Morris sought clarification on the term 'specified alien' as used in the bill, indicating confusion over the definition and its implications.
HB71: Representative Freeman Support04:21:24.960 - 1:20:40 PM; Representative Freeman supported the bill, explaining that it addresses individuals who have not been vetted, including Asylum Seekers who entered the country via the CBP One app. They argued that such individuals pose potential risks to public safety and health, citing examples from Massachusetts and New York where communities faced challenges due to unvetted individuals.
HB71: Representative SEL Oppose04:23:42.720 - 1:22:58 PM; Representative SEL opposed the bill, arguing that it is offensive and that people who come to the country are often fleeing dire situations. They criticized the focus on diseases, suggesting that other bills reducing access to vaccinations should be addressed instead.
HB71: Representative Morris Support04:24:28.199 - 1:23:44 PM; Representative Morris shared a personal experience of being assaulted by an illegal alien in South Carolina, using it to illustrate the potential risks posed by individuals who do not understand or follow local laws. They supported the bill as a preventative measure to protect community safety.
HB71: Representative Damon Oppose04:26:04.359 - 1:25:20 PM; Representative Damon rejected the notion that immigrants are uniquely responsible for crimes like drunk driving and assault, arguing that such behaviors are not exclusive to immigrants.
HB71: Representative Bon Oppose04:26:53.439 - 1:26:09 PM; Representative Bon clarified the term 'specified aliens' as used in the bill, stating that according to the New Hampshire Health and Human Services, it could include all non-citizens, potentially affecting legal residents and refugees.
HB71: Representative Bolia Support04:27:35.239 - 1:26:51 PM; Representative Bolia supports HB71, emphasizing that the bill aims to keep schools designated for students and protect this vulnerable population. They mentioned that during the COVID-19 period, schools were closed and used for other purposes, which they wish to avoid in the future. They clarified that the bill's intent is not mean-spirited but focused on maintaining schools for educational purposes. They also mentioned the existence of a refugee program with housing support, indicating that refugees have alternative options for housing.
HB71: Representative Corell Oppose04:28:21.359 - 1:27:37 PM; Representative Corell opposed the bill, highlighting potential negative fiscal impacts. They noted that Health and Human Services warned that passing the bill could lead to the loss of federal funding, potentially up to 12 to 18 million dollars annually. They also pointed out a loophole in the bill's language that might allow public charter schools to be used for housing, which was not the intended focus of the bill.
HB71: Representative Terry Support04:29:58.560 - 1:29:14 PM; Representative Terry supported the motion to pass the bill, questioning the validity of the fiscal note based on current immigration trends. They referenced an NHPR article about cancelled refugee flights to New Hampshire due to a presidential executive order, suggesting that the situation might change due to potential legal action.
HB71: Representative Bon Oppose04:31:31.680 - 1:30:47 PM; Representative Bon opposed the bill, arguing against the assumptions made about the future of refugee populations and funding. They emphasized that current federal funding supports existing refugees and questioned why refugees should not have access to emergency shelters in schools, just like any other citizens.
HB71: Representative Freeman Information Only04:31:49.439 - 1:31:05 PM; Representative Freeman provided information regarding the legal definition of an alien under USCIS law, distinguishing it from refugees and legal aliens. They clarified that refugees, legal aliens, and those with valid visas or green cards are not classified as aliens under this definition, potentially impacting the bill's scope.
HB129: Representative Dry Support04:35:00.639 - 1:34:16 PM; Representative Dry supported HB129, expressing appreciation for the bill's focus on using evidence-based methods in education. They valued the inclusion of scientific methods and falsifiability in the educational system, and clarified that the bill does not prevent the use of surveys but requires them to be labeled as self-reported data.
HB129: Representative McDonald Support04:35:00.639 - 1:34:16 PM; Representative McDonald supported the bill, emphasizing the importance of addressing the term 'evidence-based' in education over the last two years. They believed that incorporating scientific methods into education was a positive step forward.
HB129: Representative Woodcock Oppose04:36:31.599 - 1:35:47 PM; Representative Woodcock opposed HB129, expressing concerns that it would limit educational innovation by requiring established practices. They argued that this could hinder the development of new teaching methods and technologies, which are essential for improving pedagogy.
HB129: Representative C Oppose04:37:16.759 - 1:36:32 PM; Representative C opposed the bill, sharing concerns about its impact on testing new teaching techniques. They used the example of integrating technology into classrooms, which initially required innovative approaches and could be stifled by the bill's restrictions on using non-established practices.
HB129: Representative B Bon Oppose04:38:49.320 - 1:38:05 PM; Representative B Bon opposed HB129, stating that it would interfere with the sharing of best practices among teachers. They highlighted the importance of professional learning communities where teachers collaborate and innovate, suggesting that the bill could hinder such professional development.
HB129: Representative Damon Oppose04:39:10.359 - 1:38:26 PM; Representative Damon opposed the bill, echoing concerns about innovation and also raising the issue of potential cost downshifting to local communities, which they argued the state could not afford.

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