This bill proposes temporary appropriations for the state of New Hampshire to cover expenses and encumbrances from July 1, 2025, until an operating budget is enacted, but no later than January 1, 2026. It allows state agencies to obligate funds for expenditures at a rate not exceeding 45% of the appropriations for fiscal year 2025, as outlined in previous legislative sessions. The bill also includes provisions for the acceptance of federal funds necessary to implement its provisions and allows for the transfer of funds with prior approval from the fiscal committee of the general court. Additionally, it indemnifies state officials from personal liability incurred due to certain provisions of existing law during the effective period of this act.

Furthermore, the bill amends the eligibility criteria for the education freedom account (EFA) program by eliminating the income requirement, which could lead to an indeterminable increase in the number of students accessing the program. The estimated average grant for newly eligible students is projected to be approximately $4,419. The fiscal impact of this change is complex, as it may result in increased costs for the state, particularly for students attending non-public schools or home education settings, while potentially generating savings for students leaving charter schools. The bill also anticipates that local school districts may need to adjust their expenditures in response to changes in student enrollment due to the EFA program.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 194-F:1
As Amended by the House: 194-F:1