This bill modifies the definition of "default budget" in relation to official ballot town meetings by incorporating salary and benefit reductions that occur due to position turnover. Specifically, it repeals and reenacts RSA 40:13, IX(b) to clarify that the default budget will now account for reductions in salaries and benefits of positions that have been eliminated or that were vacant prior to the approval of the previous year's budget. Additionally, it stipulates that the actual salary and benefits of filled positions as of the public hearing for the proposed budget will be reflected, excluding any increases that occurred after the previous year's budget was authorized.

Furthermore, the bill amends RSA 40:13, XI(a)(3) to include language regarding one-time expenditures, specifically mentioning reductions to line items for transfers made for these expenditures. The effective date for this act is set for January 1, 2026. Overall, the changes aim to provide a clearer framework for calculating the default budget while ensuring that it accurately reflects the financial implications of position turnover and one-time expenditures.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 40:13
As Amended by the House: 40:13
Version adopted by both bodies: 40:13