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Bill

HB 112

requiring students in the university and community college systems of New Hampshire to pass the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services civics naturalization test, take a course that covers fundamental American documents as part of the general education curriculum, or pass a civics course competency test.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Mike Belcher and 3 co-sponsors

New Hampshire requires college students to pass civics test, take American documents course, or pass civics competency exam before degree completion.

Pending Motion Ought to Pass with Amendment #2026-1734s; 05/07/2026; SJ 11
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Bill Summary · HB 112

Legislative bill overview

HB 112 requires all students in New Hampshire's university and community college systems to demonstrate civics knowledge through one of three pathways: passing the USCIS naturalization civics test, completing a course covering fundamental American documents, or passing a civics competency exam. The bill mandates civics education as part of general education requirements for degree completion.

Why is this important

Civics literacy directly affects civic participation, voter engagement, and informed democratic decision-making. With declining civics test scores nationally among young adults, this bill attempts to ensure higher education graduates possess baseline knowledge of U.S. government and constitutional principles before entering the workforce and electorate.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation burden: Community colleges and universities must develop competency tests or restructure curricula, creating costs and administrative complexity; some institutions may already cover this material differently
  • USCIS test appropriateness: The naturalization test is designed for immigrants seeking citizenship and may not align with educational standards for native-born students or comprehensive civics education goals
  • Curriculum flexibility vs. mandate: Institutions lose autonomy in designing general education requirements; some may argue this represents state overreach into higher education governance
  • Access and equity concerns: Students with language barriers or learning disabilities may face disproportionate challenges with standardized testing requirements versus course-based alternatives

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

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