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 HB 1 of the 2023 legislative session. 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 RSA 9 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 is expected to increase the number of students accessing the program. The estimated cost of the program is indeterminable, as it will depend on the number of new students enrolling. The average grant for newly eligible students is projected to be approximately $4,419, which is lower than the current average due to the absence of free or reduced-price meal eligibility. The bill anticipates various financial impacts on the state and local school districts, including potential cost savings and increased expenditures, depending on student enrollment patterns.

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