This bill establishes two significant initiatives aimed at improving the efficiency and funding of education in the state. First, it creates a study committee tasked with analyzing the potential reduction of school administrative units (SAUs) in the state. The committee will consist of two Senate members and five House members, who will receive mileage compensation for their duties. Their responsibilities include examining the roles of SAUs and local school districts, assessing the feasibility of consolidating SAUs, and reviewing existing research on district consolidation. The committee is required to report its findings and recommendations by November 1, 2025.

Secondly, the bill establishes a commission to study the costs associated with special education in public schools. This commission will include various stakeholders, such as educators, parents, and representatives from the Department of Education and Health and Human Services. The commission's focus will be on analyzing special education referral rates, the impact of COVID-19 on referrals, and the financial implications of providing special education services. The commission is also tasked with exploring alternative funding sources to reduce reliance on local property taxes. An initial report is due by November 1, 2025, with a final report expected by July 1, 2026. Additionally, the bill includes a repeal of RSA 186-C:1-a, which pertains to the commission studying special education, effective July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
As Amended by the House: 186-C:1-a
Version adopted by both bodies: 186-C:1-a