This bill mandates that local school boards in New Hampshire must publicly discuss and vote on any charitable gifts, grants, or donations valued at $5,000 or more before accepting or rejecting them. The new legal language inserted into RSA 188-E:9-a emphasizes that these discussions and votes must occur in a public session, while also allowing for the option of anonymous donations if the donor prefers. This requirement aims to enhance transparency and accountability within local school boards and related entities regarding the acceptance of gifts and donations.

Additionally, the bill establishes a Virtual Early Childhood Readiness Family Engagement Program under RSA 186, which focuses on improving literacy and kindergarten readiness for preschool children aged 4 and 5 through educational technology. The program will be funded through appropriated funds, grants, and donations, with the Department of Education responsible for oversight and annual reporting on participation metrics. Furthermore, the bill amends RSA 91-A:5, IV to classify library user information, including library cards and membership status, as confidential records exempt from public disclosure, thereby protecting user privacy. The library card amendment will take effect 60 days after passage, while the other provisions will be effective on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 194-E:2, 198:20-c, 200:44-b, 200:54, 31:31, 35-B:1, 188-E:9-a
As Amended by the House: 194-E:2, 198:20-c, 200:44-b, 200:54, 31:31, 35-B:1, 188-E:9-a, 91-A:5