This bill proposes an increase in the annual cost of providing an adequate education for pupils in 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 additional funding allocated for special education services from $2,100 to $29,556 per pupil. This adjustment aims to better support the educational needs of students requiring special education, thereby increasing the overall cost of an adequate education as defined in current law.

The fiscal impact of this bill is substantial, 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, with similar magnitudes of impact 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 ensure that students receiving special education services receive the necessary financial support for their educational needs.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 198:40-a