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Bill

Bill

SB 295

relative to education freedom accounts.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Kevin Avard and 8 co-sponsors

New Hampshire now allows parents to direct education funding toward private schools, homeschooling, and tutoring through Education Freedom Accounts, redirecting public education dollars to individual choice.

II. Remainder Effective 06/10/2025
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Bill Summary · SB 295

Legislative bill overview

SB 295 establishes Education Freedom Accounts (EFAs) in New Hampshire, a tax-credit funded program that allows parents to redirect public education funding toward alternative educational choices including private schools, homeschooling, tutoring, and special services. The program is now law as of June 10, 2025, with most provisions effective immediately and specific sections phased in later.

Why is this important

This legislation fundamentally restructures how education funding flows in New Hampshire by decoupling per-pupil spending from traditional public schools. Parents gain expanded choice and flexibility in educational spending, while public school districts face potential revenue loss when students leave their rosters, affecting their budgets and resources for remaining students.

Potential points of contention

  • Public school funding impact: Districts losing students through EFAs will experience reduced revenue while fixed costs (buildings, administration) remain, potentially necessitating service cuts or tax increases
  • Equity and access concerns: Families with resources to supplement accounts or navigate alternative programs may benefit disproportionately, while lower-income families might lack viable options in their regions
  • Accountability and standards: Private schools and tutoring services participating in EFAs may face fewer regulatory requirements and academic standards than public schools, raising questions about educational quality and student outcomes tracking
  • Fiscal sustainability: The tax-credit mechanism's actual cost to the state and long-term budgetary effects remain uncertain without implementation data

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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