This bill amends existing laws regarding the prohibition on teaching discrimination in public schools. It allows individuals who believe they have been harmed by intentional or knowing violations of this prohibition to initiate civil actions against the offending school or district. The bill also establishes that such violations by educators will be considered breaches of the educator code of conduct, which may lead to investigations and disciplinary actions by the state board of education. The new legal language includes provisions that clarify the scope of discussions allowed in educational settings, ensuring that discussions about historical ideas and scientifically supported information regarding differences among various groups are not prohibited.

Additionally, the bill repeals and reenacts certain sections of RSA 193:40, specifically addressing the definitions and prohibitions related to discrimination in teaching. It emphasizes that discrimination cannot be justified by special considerations for any racial group and aims to protect all New Hampshire citizens equally from discrimination. The definition of "educator" is also clarified to include all professional employees requiring state certification, such as administrators, specialists, and teachers. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 354-A:29