This bill establishes a Berlin Cosmetology Program Task Force to assess the feasibility of creating cosmetology-related programming in Coos County, specifically at the Berlin Regional Career & Technical Center and within the New Hampshire community college system. The task force will consist of representatives from various educational and community organizations, including the Department of Education, White Mountain Community College, and the Berlin Regional Career & Technical Center. The task force is tasked with evaluating the needs and opportunities for cosmetology education in northern New Hampshire, including staffing, funding, and potential co-location of programs, and is required to report its findings and recommendations by June 1, 2027.

Additionally, the bill amends RSA 188-E to allow for the designation of career and technical education programs located on community college campuses and those jointly established by community colleges and technical education centers. It also includes a provision for the prospective repeal of the task force section by June 30, 2027. The bill does not provide specific funding but allows the Department of Education to use Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act funding for costs associated with the study, although the Department has indicated that this may not be an allowable use of such funds.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 188-E:1, 188-E:5-a
SB531 text: 188-E:1