New Hampshire 2022 Regular Session

New Hampshire House Bill HB1513

Introduced
12/9/21  
Refer
12/9/21  
Report Pass
3/9/22  
Engrossed
3/22/22  
Refer
3/22/22  
Report Pass
4/14/22  
Report Pass
4/26/22  
Enrolled
6/14/22  
Chaptered
6/29/22  

Caption

Relative to the definition of a child with a disability under special education laws and providing funding for special education costs for students over age 21 until their 22nd birthday.

Impact

The implications of this bill on state laws are multifaceted. Primarily, it adjusts the current legal framework governing special education to ensure that students with disabilities have the right to receive services until the end of the academic year in which they turn 21. This shift not only provides continuity in educational support for these individuals but may also affect funding mechanisms as school districts navigate the financial responsibilities associated with these extended services. The additional inclusion of older students is expected to increase the demands on educational resources and funding at both local and state levels.

Summary

House Bill 1513 (HB1513) aims to amend the definition of 'child with a disability' within special education laws, extending the age limit for eligibility to include individuals up to 21 years of age. This change is significant as it encompasses those who are 18 to 21 years old, allowing them to continue receiving educational support if they were previously receiving services before turning 21. By broadening this definition, the bill aims to better accommodate the educational needs of older students with disabilities who might require additional time and resources before transitioning into adult services.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB1513 appears to be generally supportive among legislators and advocacy groups focused on special education. Proponents of the bill argue that it is a necessary step towards inclusiveness, ensuring that vulnerable populations receive the appropriate educational interventions they need. However, there may also be concerns expressed regarding the financial impact on school districts, which could face uncertainties in budgeting for these extended services, leading to a mixed sentiment among local administrators.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB1513 could arise concerning the financial implications for both school districts and state education funding. While the bill is well-intentioned, critics might raise concerns about the adequacy of financing these additional educational services, which could prove burdensome for local school budgets. The bill's fiscal note indicates that the exact financial impact remains indeterminable, raising questions about sustainability and resource allocation for extending special education services to a broader age group.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NH SB394

Relative to the definition of a child with a disability under special education laws and providing funding for special education costs for students over age 21 to age 22.

NH SB596

Relative to the definition of disability or special needs under the child care scholarship program.

NH HB455

Relative to creating a new state cause of action and special findings for abused, neglected, and abandoned children seeking special immigrant juvenile status under federal law.

NH HB455

Relative to creating a new state cause of action and special findings for abused, neglected, and abandoned children seeking special immigrant juvenile status under federal law.

NH HB577

Relative to state aid for special education pupils.

NH HB577

Relative to state aid for special education pupils.

NH HB699

Relative to special education definitions.

NH HB1016

Relative to licensing of speech-language specialists.

NH HB2322

Revising the definition of "children with disabilities" for purposes of providing special education to replace emotional disturbance with emotional disability.

NH H7250

Amends the term "extraordinary costs" for the purposes of excess costs associated with special education students. The new definition of extraordinary costs would be educational costs that are over 3 times the average statewide special education cost.

Similar Bills

NH SB394

Relative to the definition of a child with a disability under special education laws and providing funding for special education costs for students over age 21 to age 22.

NH HB411

Relative to mediation of cases involving children.

NH HB1292

Relative to coverage of children under the state retiree insurance plan and relative to federal immigration enforcement.

NH HB552

Relative to coverage of children under the state retiree insurance plan.

NH SB177

Relative to health insurance coverage of prosthetics for children under 19 years of age.

NH SB411

Establishing a committee to study emergency mental health services for persons 21 years of age and younger in New Hampshire.

NH HB1303

Relative to the estate of Tekeste Berhanu.

NH SB177

To create orthotics and prosthetics parity and ensure coverage of orthotics and prosthetics for the performance of physical activities for children 18 years of age and younger.