New Hampshire House Bill HB468

New Hampshire 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/23
• Refer: 1/11/23
• Report Pass: 11/17/23
• Engrossed: 2/22/24
• Refer: 2/22/24
• Report Pass: 4/16/24

Caption

Establishing a commission to recodify the education laws and making an appropriation therefor.

Impact

One of the primary impacts of HB468 is the intended appropriations of $100,000 to the Department of Education for the hiring of an attorney to assist the newly formed recodification commission. This funding is aimed at aiding the commission's work over the biennium ending June 30, 2025. The committee is also expected to identify statutes that need consolidation, thereby enhancing the clarity and efficiency of educational legislation. However, there is a note of concern as the Department of Education expressed that this appropriated sum might be insufficient for the projected workload, indicating potential challenges ahead.

Summary

House Bill 468 (HB468) aims to establish a commission tasked with the recodification of education laws in New Hampshire. Specifically targeting the statutes contained within Title XV, Chapters RSA 186 through 200-N, the bill recognizes the necessity to modernize and streamline the existing education laws which may be duplicative or contradictory. The bill's sponsors include various representatives from both the House and Senate, reflecting a collective legislative interest in improving educational statutes.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB468 appears to be generally supportive among lawmakers who see the need for a critical review of outdated or conflicting education laws. Yet, concerns have been raised regarding the adequacy of funding for the commission, suggesting that while there is a shared goal of improving the education system, apprehensions about the execution of the bill's intentions exist. Legislative discussions may involve some contention over the means and resources the commission will require to fulfill its mandate effectively.

Contention

Notable points of contention stem from the debate on how best to recodify education laws. While many legislators support the consolidation and improvement of statutes, the uncertainty regarding funding adequacy and its implications for the commission's ability to deliver on its objectives raises questions. As the commission is required to report its findings and recommendations by September 30, 2026, the viability of this timeline against the appropriated budget remains a significant concern for both lawmakers and educational stakeholders.