Committee Summary for Senate Education (04/22/2025)

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
HB354 00:19:06.200 - 8:16:02 AM	Public Hearing	relative to alternate certification pathways for career and technical education instructors.	Ladd, Rick(R)[B+]2025
HB494 00:32:50.480 - 8:29:46 AM	Public Hearing	(New Title) relative to the math learning communities program.	Ladd, Rick(R)[B+]2025
HB677 01:02:54.920 - 8:59:50 AM	Public Hearing	(Second New Title) relative to the possession and use of epinephrine at recreation camps, schools, and institutions of higher education.	Drago, Mike(R)[A-]2025
HB781 01:21:43.600 - 9:18:39 AM	Public Hearing	(New Title) requiring school districts to adopt policies establishing a cell phone-free education.	Litchfield, Melissa(R)[B+]2025
HB115 01:27:18.840 - 9:24:14 AM	Public Hearing	(New Title) making temporary appropriations for the expenses and encumbrances of the state of New Hampshire.	McDonnell, Valerie(R)[B+]2025

HB354: Rick Lad, Haverhill, New Hampshire Support00:19:06.200 - 8:16:02 AM; Representative Rick Lad introduced HB354, which aims to modify the alternative certification pathways for career technical education (CTE) instructors. He explained that current rules allow a candidate to substitute a nationally recognized test of academic proficiency with three years of full-time experience and an industry-recognized credential. The bill seeks to incorporate these rules into statute and strengthen them by requiring 'professional paid full-time experience' in the relevant field. Lad emphasized the need for CTE instructors with real-world experience and industry credentials, using the example of a certified mechanic at a Toyota dealership versus someone simply parking cars. He noted that the bill passed unanimously in the House and is intended to ensure CTE instructors have the necessary skills and knowledge.
HB354: Dan Bennett, President of the New Hampshire Auto Dealers Association Support00:25:00.720 - 8:21:56 AM; Dan Bennett, representing the New Hampshire Auto Dealers Association, expressed strong support for HB354. He highlighted the association's involvement with CTE auto programs in high schools and community colleges, and their scholarship programs aimed at fostering a local workforce. Bennett described the bill as a 'talent acquisition bill,' allowing CTE schools to hire individuals with substantial industry experience, even if they lack traditional educational credentials. He believes this will enhance the ability of CTE programs to acquire skilled instructors and improve workforce development in New Hampshire.
HB494: Rick Lad, Haver, New Hampshire Support00:32:50.480 - 8:29:46 AM; Representative Rick Lad introduced HB494, which focuses on math learning communities. He mentioned that the bill aims to enhance math education through community-based learning approaches.
HB494: Rick Lad, Haver, New Hampshire Support00:32:50.480 - 8:29:46 AM; Rick Lad discussed the importance of the math learning communities program, which has been in effect under RSA 194. The program was initiated over a decade ago due to concerns about mathematics achievement in the state, particularly the high number of students needing remedial math in community colleges. He highlighted the program's evolution, the shift of its administration to the community college system, and the involvement of schools like Inner Lakes, Manchester Central, Manchester Memorial, Manchester West, Merrimack Valley, Moultonborough, Nashua North, Nashua South, Plymouth, Prospect Mountain, Spalding, and Woodsville-Haverhill. He emphasized the program's role in preparing students for algebra 2 and its unanimous passage in the House. He urged the Senate to prioritize funding for this and the concurrent dual enrollment program.
HB494: Chris Con, Project Director for the Math Learning Communities Program, Community College System of New Hampshire Support00:46:15.440 - 8:43:11 AM; Chris Con explained that the math learning communities program, which had been grant-funded from 2006 to 2017, lost funding but was restarted with legislative support. The program aims to improve college readiness and expand to career and life readiness. It focuses on juniors and seniors initially but plans to include freshmen to address early disengagement with math. The curriculum is developed in collaboration with UNH and includes courses like algebra 2 and statistics. Con highlighted the program's approach to teaching, which emphasizes exploration and student engagement over memorization. She also discussed the professional development provided to teachers and the interest from 12 schools in implementing the program, with potential for more.
HB677: Senator Sullivan Information Only01:02:54.920 - 8:59:50 AM; Senator Sullivan introduced the bill and noted its requirement for public schools to maintain epinephrine supplies and report annually on their use. The bill also mandates that at least one assistant personnel be available during school hours.
HB677: Representative Mike Drago, Raymond, New Hampshire Support01:06:03.200 - 9:02:59 AM; Representative Drago supported the bill, explaining that it mandates schools to have epinephrine on hand, which is crucial since 17 to 27% of students needing epinephrine in schools are unaware of their allergies. He emphasized the availability of free epinephrine supplies from programs like EpiPen and Nephi nasal spray, which also replace used doses for free. He addressed concerns about costs, noting the reduction in price of epinephrine and the availability of free supplies, ensuring no unfunded mandates on schools. He was open to amendments to ensure the sustainability of the program and to limit potential liability for schools.
HB677: Representative Mike Drago, Raymond, New Hampshire Information Only01:06:03.200 - 9:02:59 AM; Representative Mike Drago from Raymond, New Hampshire, concluded his testimony on HB677. The summary of his speech is not provided in this snippet as he was finishing speaking before the new speaker began.
HB781: Representative Melissa Lichfield, Brentwood, Fremont, and Danville, New Hampshire Support01:21:43.600 - 9:18:39 AM; Representative Melissa Lichfield, representing Brentwood, Fremont, and Danville, introduced HB781, which focuses on limiting cell phone use in schools. She attended the Excellence in Education Conference, which inspired the bill due to issues with cell phones affecting student mental health, including depression and low self-esteem. Lichfield highlighted the use of programs like Yonder, which uses pouches to store phones during school hours. Initially, she proposed a pilot program with a $250,000 budget, but due to financial constraints, the financial note was removed. The House Education Policy Administration Committee formed a work study committee, leading to an amendment suggesting phone restrictions during class periods, with exceptions for special needs. Lichfield addressed concerns about students using dummy phones to bypass the policy.
HB115: Representative Valerie McDonald, Salem, New Hampshire Support01:27:18.840 - 9:24:14 AM; Representative Valerie McDonald from Salem, New Hampshire, presented HB115, advocating for its passage over Senate Bill 295. She emphasized HB115's universal approach starting in fiscal year 2027, with an increased income eligibility in 2026. McDonald argued that HB115 would prevent children from being turned away due to application timing, a potential issue under Senate Bill 295. She clarified misunderstandings about the Education Freedom Account (EFA) program, such as the misconception that unused funds are retained by families, and addressed concerns about the program's impact on public school funding and special education rights.
HB115: Senator Aliller Information Only01:30:23.840 - 9:27:19 AM; Senator Aliller questioned Representative McDonald about the fiscal implications of HB115, pointing out the potential inadequacy of the fiscal note given ongoing lawsuits and the program's cost. They also raised concerns about the program's impact on public schools, suggesting that it diverts funds from a majority of students to a small group. McDonald clarified the lawsuits' relevance and the fiscal note's context, emphasizing that the program still supports public school students in different settings.
HB115: Senator Apprentice Information Only01:34:59.440 - 9:31:55 AM; Senator Apprentice questioned the universality of HB115 post-June 2026 and the lack of checks and balances. McDonald responded by affirming the program's accountability measures, including the use of Class Wallet to verify transactions and the distribution of funds throughout the year rather than a lump sum. They also addressed misconceptions about unused funds, stating that they are remitted back to the scholarship fund if not used.
HB115: Senator Sullivan Information Only01:36:36.239 - 9:33:32 AM; Senator Sullivan sought clarification on the mechanics of the EFA program, particularly how funds are reimbursed to schools rather than given directly to families. They also questioned the financial projections, citing research by the Josiah Bartlett Center. McDonald acknowledged the clarification and praised the center's work, emphasizing the program's accountability and differences from voucher programs in other states.
HB115: Sandra Cannon Oppose01:43:29.400 - 9:40:25 AM; Sandra Cannon opposed HB115, arguing against the removal of income eligibility caps for EFAs. She criticized the lack of transparency and accountability in the program's administration by the Children's Scholarship Fund, which she claimed did not comply with right-to-know laws. Cannon also raised concerns about the use of EFA funds for religious education, suggesting it violated the separation of church and state. She highlighted differences in special education requirements between public and EFA schools and criticized the state's budget priorities favoring wealthy individuals and businesses over homeowners.
HB115: Sherry Parker Oppose01:48:13.920 - 9:45:09 AM; Sherry Parker opposed HB115, describing the current budget season as challenging for schools. She criticized the lack of means testing for EFAs compared to rigorous testing for school lunch programs, arguing that HB115 provides unrestricted handouts to all families, including wealthy ones. Parker highlighted the potential for misuse of funds and the lack of accountability in the program's administration through an NGO.
HB115: Nancy Brennan from Weare Oppose01:51:28.239 - 9:48:24 AM; Nancy Brennan, a public school educator from Weare, spoke against HB115, expressing concerns about its impact on her town's budget. She highlighted that the bill would further reduce the funds available to her town, already struggling with budget issues due to withdrawn income and dividends. Brennan questioned the notion of 'choice' in the bill, arguing that it does not truly provide options for all students, particularly those with disabilities or from the LGBTQ community. She criticized the lack of accountability in the program compared to public schools and mentioned the educational trust fund, suggesting its funds should be directed more towards schools in property-poor towns rather than a few students through the proposed program.
HB115: Sarah Thorne from Holderness Oppose01:58:32.480 - 9:55:28 AM; Sarah Thorne, a retired public school teacher from Holderness, urged the committee to oppose HB115. She expressed concerns about the burden on local budgets due to state downshifting and criticized the education freedom account system as neither free nor fair. Thorne highlighted the undefined fiscal impact of the bill as a source of community division and stressed the importance of assessing the current 350% wealth limit carefully before expanding eligibility. She also shared personal concerns about the bill's impact on her children's decision to settle in New Hampshire, suggesting it might drive them away due to the state's investment priorities.
HB115: Janet Ward from the League of Women Voters of New Hampshire Oppose02:01:56.320 - 9:58:52 AM; Janet Ward, Vice President of the League of Women Voters of New Hampshire, opposed HB115, arguing that it represents taxation without representation. She criticized the school voucher program for diverting public funds to private, religious, or homeschooling without sufficient oversight, referencing the inability of the Legislative Budget Assistant to audit the program fully. Ward expressed concerns about the historical context of public education and the democratic necessity of an educated populace, suggesting that the voucher system undermines these principles. She also questioned the need for public funding of education for families who can afford private schooling, viewing the bill as a political statement towards universalizing school vouchers.
HB115: Patty Long, League of Women Voters of New Hampshire Oppose02:08:01.360 - 10:04:57 AM; Patty Long expressed strong opposition to HB115, focusing on her extensive research into the Education Freedom Accounts (EFAs). She highlighted concerns about the misuse of EFA funds, citing examples from the Children's Scholarship Fund's expenditure report, including a case where a student used EFA funds for a dance academy. Long argued that such uses of the funds do not align with the intended educational purposes, and she is worried about the potential financial strain on the state if the income cap for EFAs is removed. She also shared a personal anecdote about encountering a homeschooling family using EFA funds for skiing, emphasizing her belief that the program might be diverting funds from more critical public services like Medicare and education for the disabled.
HB115: Margaret (Peggy) Van Bulenberg, Retired Educator Oppose02:15:07.199 - 10:12:03 AM; Margaret Van Bulenberg, a retired educator, opposed HB115, arguing against lifting the income cap for EFA accounts. She highlighted that the majority of students benefiting from EFAs are already in private or homeschool settings, and questioned the state's financial ability to support this expansion. She emphasized her experience in public education, where expenditures had to directly correlate with educational outcomes, and questioned the accountability of EFA spending. Van Bulenberg expressed concern that the original intent of EFAs, to support families in less able or rural areas, was being lost.
HB115: Anne Staley, Peterborough Oppose02:19:37.879 - 10:16:33 AM; Anne Staley opposed HB115, arguing against the removal of the income threshold for EFA funding. She pointed out that the bill would allow funding for families across all income levels, including millionaires, which she considered fiscally irresponsible, especially given the current state budget challenges. Staley referenced recent articles highlighting New Hampshire's revenue shortfalls and budget deficits, urging legislators to consider the responsible use of tax dollars in light of these fiscal issues.
HB115: Heather Robbitai, Marramack Oppose02:23:10.399 - 10:20:06 AM; Heather Robbitai strongly opposed HB115, arguing that expanding EFAs to include wealthy families is irresponsible, especially with inadequate funding for public and special education. She shared her concerns about the financial burden on Marramack residents due to rising property taxes, which are needed to fund public schools. Robbitai criticized the use of EFA funds for extracurricular activities like gymnastics, contrasting this with the lack of state funding for similar activities in traditional public schools. She emphasized that most residents across the political spectrum do not support this bill and urged the committee to table it.
HB115: Caitlyn Bernier, Merrimack Oppose02:27:35.760 - 10:24:31 AM; Caitlyn Bernier from Merrimack, a member of the school budget and planning and building committees, and a parent on a fixed income, opposes HB115 due to its potential negative fiscal impact on public school funding. She argues that the bill would divert taxpayer dollars to Education Freedom Accounts (EFAs) at the expense of public schools. Bernier also expresses concern about the removal of income limits on EFAs, which she believes would widen the economic gap and disadvantage those on fixed incomes. She highlights the inadequacy of the EFA funding for certain educational needs like specialized tutoring for dyslexia and suggests that public schools would bear additional costs when EFA students return due to unmet educational needs.
HB115: Alicia Houston, NSHA Support02:31:03.240 - 10:27:59 AM; Alicia Houston from NSHA supports HB115, emphasizing the benefits of Education Freedom Accounts (EFAs) for providing educational choice, equity, and accountability. She argues that EFAs allow for tailored education that can meet the diverse needs of students, enabling them to thrive in environments suited to their talents and dreams. Houston asserts that EFAs level the playing field for families across income levels, providing access to high-quality education. She counters concerns about the impact on public schools, suggesting that competition from EFAs could lead to improvements in public education.
HB115: Ed Tarnowski, Ed Choice Information Only02:34:23.960 - 10:31:19 AM; Ed Tarnowski from Ed Choice presents findings from a joint analysis with the Josiah Bartlett Center for Public Policy on the potential impact of expanding Education Freedom Accounts (EFAs) in New Hampshire. He discusses anticipated take-up rates for the program, estimating costs for the state in the first two years of expansion. Tarnowski emphasizes that the data from other states suggest the program would not disproportionately benefit the wealthy and would have a minimal fiscal impact on state expenditures. He addresses concerns about funding sources, clarifying that EFA costs are drawn from the education trust fund and not from other state services.
HB115: Deborah House, American Federation of Teachers, New Hampshire Oppose02:43:57.640 - 10:40:53 AM; Deborah House, representing the American Federation of Teachers, New Hampshire, opposes HB115. She argues that the bill undermines the state's constitutional obligation to provide a robust public education. House highlights the financial challenges the state faces and criticizes the expansion of the voucher program at a time when public schools are underfunded. She expresses concerns about the lack of transparency and accountability in the EFA program compared to public schools, where spending and outcomes are more openly reviewed.
HB115: Kelly Santos and Eli Santos Support02:47:42.920 - 10:44:38 AM; Kelly Santos and her son Eli support the expansion of the Education Freedom Account (EFA) program. Kelly shares their personal experience with the program, explaining how it has benefited her twice-exceptional children by providing educational options that better meet their needs compared to traditional public schools. Eli briefly shares his positive experience with homeschooling compared to his previous school environment, highlighting reduced distractions and better learning conditions at home.
HB115: Mary Wilkey, Retired Public School Teacher, Concord Oppose02:53:18.200 - 10:50:14 AM; Mary Wilkey, a retired public school teacher from Concord, opposes HB115. She criticizes the lack of transparency and accountability in the Education Freedom Account (EFA) program, comparing it unfavorably with the detailed budget reporting of public schools. Wilkey raises concerns about the potential misuse of EFA funds due to the absence of detailed spending reports and highlights a previous compliance review that found errors in eligibility determinations. She questions the wisdom of expanding the program without a thorough performance review.
HB115: Lisa Bodwin, Executive Director, New Hampshire Council of Churches Oppose02:57:12.840 - 10:54:08 AM; Lisa Bodwin, representing the New Hampshire Council of Churches, opposed HB115, arguing that it is ill-timed given budget cuts across agencies, particularly the Department of Health and Human Services. She highlighted that the bill could cost over $100 million in state education funds, referencing the underestimated costs of Education Freedom Accounts (EFAs) by the Department of Education. Bodwin expressed concerns about the lack of access for low-income students to EFAs, noting that 75% of EFAs are used by students already in private schools. She criticized the program for not serving low-income students effectively and for violating religious conscience by allowing government-funded discrimination in private religious schools, which often deny access to students with special education needs.
HB115: David Trumbull, Town of Ware Oppose03:00:59.040 - 10:57:55 AM; David Trumbull opposed HB115, arguing that universal vouchers would drain the trust fund without saving money for schools. He pointed out the low number of students switching from public to EFA programs, suggesting that the program does not lead to significant savings. Trumbull also criticized the program for not providing real choice, as private schools can pick their students, and highlighted the disparity in participation between low and high-income families. He discussed the challenges for special education and ELL students under the EFA program, noting that many private schools receiving EFAs discriminate against students with disabilities.
HB115: Dave Luno, Representative for Hopkinton and Bow Oppose03:04:41.359 - 11:01:37 AM; Representative Dave Luno opposed the expansion of the EFA program, citing voter opposition across New Hampshire. He mentioned that 17 towns passed resolutions against the expansion, emphasizing that spending taxpayer money on families earning over $110,000 a year is not a good use of funds. Luno argued that the program does not save money for schools when students leave, as the budget does not adjust immediately to the loss of one student. He also highlighted the high take-up rate among families already sending their children to private schools, indicating that the program is a cost to the state rather than a savings.
HB115: Hope Damon Oppose03:13:34.399 - 11:10:30 AM; Hope Damon opposed HB115, stating that passing the bill would be irresponsible governance. She noted that voters statewide have clearly opposed universal vouchers, with 95% of online and email testimonies against the bill. Damon highlighted the numerous towns that passed warrant articles opposing the voucher expansion and criticized the idea of spending up to $100 million on affluent families' education while cutting funding for the University of New Hampshire. She argued that this approach devalues public education and higher education, which are crucial for the state's economy and workforce.
HB115: Timothy Han, Representative from Strafford District 10, Durham Oppose03:16:48.000 - 11:13:44 AM; Representative Timothy Han opposed HB115, arguing that the funds used for the voucher program could restore state aid to the University of New Hampshire. He criticized the program for primarily supporting religious education, noting that 86% of tuition dollars go to parochial or Christian schools. Han raised constitutional concerns, citing a provision in the state constitution that might prohibit such programs. He also questioned the legality and efficiency of outsourcing the program's administration to an out-of-state NGO, suggesting that eliminating or not expanding the program would be beneficial.
HB115: Alyssa Sosa Molina, High School Senior Support03:20:27.760 - 11:17:23 AM; Alyssa Sosa Molina supported HB115, sharing her personal experience with the Education Freedom Account Funds. She explained how the EFA allowed her to attend a private school that changed her life and provided opportunities she needed. Molina advocated for the expansion of the program to help more students escape toxic school environments and access better education. She emphasized that the program should be a right, not a privilege, and urged the committee to vote in favor of HB115 to strengthen the education system and support students in need.
HB115: Glenn Cordelli, Representative for Tuftonborough, Wolfeboro, and Ossipee Information Only03:23:21.680 - 11:20:17 AM; Representative Glenn Cordelli provided information to correct several points made during the testimony. He mentioned an ongoing audit of the EFA program by the legislative budget assistant, refuted the $100 million cost estimate as a political number, and clarified that the program does not involve cash handouts but deposits funds into an account for allowable educational expenses. Cordelli also addressed concerns about funding religious schools, citing Supreme Court decisions that support such programs, and refuted claims about Arizona's financial situation, stating that their education fund had a surplus.

Ward, Ruth(Chairman)(R)[B-]2025	Sullivan, Victoria(V Chairman)(R)[A-]2025	Prentiss, Suzanne(D)[F]2025
Altschiller, Debra(D)[CT]2025	Abbas, Daryl(R)[B-]2025