This bill proposes a new procedure that allows residents of school districts to vote on whether to grant their local city councils or similar governing bodies the authority to review and approve school district budgets. Specifically, it introduces new paragraphs to RSA 194-C:9-a, allowing school districts to place a question on the warrant of their next annual meeting regarding the adoption of these provisions. If a majority of voters approve, the new budget approval process will take effect at the next annual meeting and will remain in place until rescinded. The bill also outlines the procedures for voting, including the wording of the ballot question and the responsibilities of school district moderators and secretaries in recording and certifying the results.

Additionally, the bill amends RSA 194-C:9-b to specify that in districts that adopt the new budget approval process, the school budget must be presented as a separate warrant article at the annual meeting, with strict guidelines on how the budget can be voted on and amended. If the proposed budget does not receive a majority vote, the previous year's budget will be adjusted and adopted instead. The bill also includes provisions for recounts and the retention of ballots for a specified period. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance local governance and accountability in school budget approvals while ensuring transparency in the voting process.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 194-C:9-a, 194-C:9-b
HB1220 text: 194-C:9-a, 194-C:9-b