NH
New Hampshire House Bill HB699

New Hampshire 2025 Regular Session

New Hampshire House Bill HB699

Introduced
1/21/25  
Refer
1/21/25  
Report Pass
3/19/25  
Report DNP
3/19/25  
Engrossed
3/28/25  
Refer
3/28/25  
Report Pass
5/13/25  
Enrolled
6/25/25  
Chaptered
7/8/25  

Caption

Relative to special education definitions.

Impact

The impact of HB 699 will be significant as it amends existing definitions and standards for special education services, particularly for children who have visual impairments and other disabilities. By mandating proficiency in Braille for students identified with visual impairments, the bill prioritizes a crucial skill that can enhance educational outcomes for these students. This reflects a strong commitment to inclusive education and aims to support learning in the least restrictive environment possible, which is a key tenet of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

Summary

House Bill 699 aims to redefine and establish new definitions related to special education in the state of New Hampshire. The bill seeks to update and clarify the language within RSA 186-C, enhancing the understanding of terms such as 'child with a disability', 'developmentally delayed child', and 'acquired brain injury'. These definitions are essential for providing appropriate educational resources and services tailored to children with varying disabilities, thus ensuring they receive the support they require for their educational success.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support for its focus on enhancing special education definitions, there are concerns among some members of the education community regarding the implementation of these provisions, particularly around staffing and resource allocation for teaching Braille and specialized instruction. Critics worry that insufficient funding or training could impede the effective rollout of these necessary educational supports, potentially affecting the quality of services provided to students with disabilities. The discussions around these potential challenges underline the ongoing tension between policy intentions and practical execution in the realm of special education.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NH HB501

Relative to ages for special education services.

NH HB1670

Relative to including all special education costs under state education grants.

NH SB596

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

NH HB619

Prohibiting gender transition procedures for minors, relative to sex and gender in public schools, and relative to the definition of conversion therapy.

NH SB266

Relative to the statewide education improvement and assessment program.

NH SB522

Relative to establishing an early childhood education scholarship account and making an appropriation therefor.

NH SB214

Establishing a department of early childhood education and relative to a pre-kindergarten pilot program.

NH SB214

Establishing a department of early childhood education and relative to a pre-kindergarten pilot program.

NH HB620

Establishing a division of early learning in the department of education and relative to a pre-kindergarten pilot program.

NH SB266

Relative to administration of school assessment and accountability programs by the department of education.

Similar Bills

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CA AB784

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HI SB108

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