This bill proposes to grant in-state tuition rates at institutions within the University System of New Hampshire and the Community College System to individuals who can provide proof of voter registration in the state. Specifically, it introduces new sections to RSA 187-A and RSA 188-F, mandating that the boards of trustees for these systems offer the in-state undergraduate tuition rate for up to four years to eligible individuals who submit satisfactory written proof of their voter registration prior to the start of each academic year.
Additionally, the bill removes college or university identification cards from the list of valid forms of photo identification for obtaining a ballot, as indicated by the repeal and reenactment of RSA 659:13, II(a)(5). The fiscal impact of this legislation is projected to be significant, with the University System of New Hampshire estimating a potential annual revenue loss of approximately $141.6 million due to the shift in tuition rates for out-of-state students. The Community College System anticipates a smaller budget decrease ranging from $100,000 to $500,000. Overall, the bill aims to incentivize voter registration among students while also raising concerns about the financial implications for the state's higher education institutions.