New Hampshire House Bill HB364

New Hampshire 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/23
• Refer: 1/9/23
• Report Pass: 2/7/23
• Refer: 2/14/23
• Report Pass: 3/29/23
• Engrossed: 4/11/23
• Refer: 4/11/23
• Report Pass: 4/26/23
• Enrolled: 6/20/23
• Chaptered: 7/12/23
• Passed: 7/12/23

Caption

Relative to transportation for students attending career and technical education centers.

Impact

The legislation is expected to replace the existing transportation reimbursement framework under RSA 188-E:8. This old structure set rates per pupil per mile for bus transportation or self-transportation and did not reflect actual transportation costs. By shifting to a formula that considers the actual costs and circumstances associated with transporting students, the bill could lead to more equitable funding across districts, though it may also introduce variability in the financial allocations depending on the logistics involved in transporting different student populations. It is particularly relevant for regional CTE centers that serve multiple sending districts.

Summary

House Bill 364 (HB364) addresses transportation reimbursement for students attending career and technical education (CTE) centers in New Hampshire. The bill mandates that the Department of Education reimburse the costs of transportation based on a formula established by the state board of education. This initiative is aimed at facilitating access to CTE programs for local students, particularly for those from at-risk backgrounds who may be attending alternative education programs. The proposed changes are set to take effect on July 1, 2025, providing a timeline for schools and districts to prepare for the modifications in funding and logistical planning.

Contention

Discussion around HB364 may center on concerns regarding fiscal implications for local school district budgets, as the reimbursement rates will be determined based on the new formula rather than fixed per-pupil rates. There may be apprehensions among school administrators about how these changes could affect their budgets, especially if transportation costs fluctuate or if the costs exceed the federal maintenance of effort requirements associated with the Perkins funding. Additionally, the bill aims to balance the need for student access to education with the financial sustainability of transportation services provided by school districts.