This bill proposes an increase in the annual cost of providing an adequate education for pupils in the Average Daily Membership in Residence (ADMR) who are receiving special education services. Specifically, it amends RSA 198:40-a to change the effective date for the biennium from July 1, 2023, to July 1, 2025. The bill also significantly raises the differentiated aid for special education students from $2,100 to $29,556 per pupil. This adjustment aims to better support the educational needs of students requiring special education services, reflecting a substantial increase in funding for these programs.

The fiscal impact of this bill is projected to be significant, with an estimated increase in adequacy grants to school districts by approximately $841.5 million in FY 2026. The bill is expected to affect district adequacy grants, charter school grants, and education freedom accounts (EFAs), with similar magnitudes anticipated in subsequent years. The Department of Education will be responsible for determining the cost of an adequate education for each municipality based on the ADMR of pupils residing there. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and aims to enhance the financial support for special education services across the state.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 198:40-a