This bill aims to redefine and enhance the standards for what constitutes a constitutionally adequate education in New Hampshire, emphasizing the importance of adequate funding for essential educational staffing and resources. Key provisions include the amendment of RSA 76:8, which now requires municipalities to deposit education-related revenue into the education trust fund instead of directly to school districts. Additionally, RSA 193-E:1 is repealed and reenacted to reinforce the state's commitment to providing quality education for all students, regardless of their location. The bill mandates the general court to define necessary resource elements for an adequate education and requires public school districts to establish targets and develop evidence-based plans to address achievement disparities among student subgroups.

Significant changes to the funding structure are introduced, including an increase in per pupil funding from $4,100 to $7,379.56, with additional support for students from low-income backgrounds, English language learners, and those receiving special education services. School districts will be required to submit three-year plans detailing their strategies for improving student achievement and addressing disparities, with annual updates mandated. The bill also establishes an Adequate Education Funding Commission to explore alternative funding sources for public school grants, excluding local property taxes, and repeals the previous commission section to focus on new funding mechanisms. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance educational funding and accountability while addressing the diverse needs of students in New Hampshire.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 76:8, 193-E:2-, 198:40-a, 198:39-a
HB1799 text: 76:8, 193-E:2-b, 198:40-a