Bill > SB292

This bill modifies the existing law regarding special education funding in New Hampshire by changing how state special education aid is distributed when appropriated funds are insufficient. Specifically, the bill authorizes the governor to draw a warrant from the education trust fund to fully satisfy the state's special education aid obligations, even if the fund's balance becomes negative. If the education trust fund balance goes below zero after issuing the warrant, the comptroller must transfer sufficient funds from the general fund to eliminate the deficit. The bill removes the previous requirement to proportionally prorate special education aid among districts when funding is limited, ensuring that school districts receive their full entitlement. The fiscal note indicates that this change could increase special education aid by approximately $16.4 million or more per year, as it eliminates the current 67.5% proration system. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and aims to provide more reliable and complete special education funding for school districts across the state.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_status/legacy/bs2016/bill_status.aspx?lsr=1031&sy=2025&sortoption=&txtsessionyear=2025&txtbillnumber=SB292