New Hampshire House Bill HB272

New Hampshire 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/23
• Refer: 1/9/23
• Report Pass: 2/16/23
• Refer: 2/22/23
• Report DNP: 11/17/23

Caption

Increasing chartered public school per pupil funding.

Impact

The implementation of HB272 is projected to result in significant financial implications for the state budget. It is expected to increase education trust fund expenditures by approximately $7.5 million per year, assuming a consistent student enrollment of around 4,912 students. This increase will directly influence the way public education is funded in the state, potentially enhancing the quality of education offered by chartered public schools as they receive more resources per student. The fiscal note indicates that the funding for this bill will come from the Education Trust Fund.

Summary

House Bill 272 (HB272) aims to increase the per pupil funding for chartered public schools in New Hampshire. The bill stipulates that the state will raise the additional grant paid to these schools from $3,626.88 to $4,627.00 starting in the fiscal year 2024. This adjustment is intended to reflect increases in operational costs and is part of the state's commitment to supporting chartered public schools, ensuring they receive adequate funding to educate students effectively. The bill applies to all chartered public schools authorized by the state board of education, with the exception of the Virtual Learning Academy Charter School.

Contention

While the increase in funding for chartered public schools has received support from various stakeholders, it has also sparked discussions regarding the allocation of finite state education resources. Opponents may argue that increasing funding to chartered public schools could detract from resources available for traditional public schools, as both types of institutions compete for limited state funding. Some may advocate for a more equitable distribution of educational funding that ensures all types of schools can thrive without compromising the quality of education offered in traditional public schools.