New Hampshire 2023 Regular Session

New Hampshire House Bill HB380

Introduced
1/9/23  

Caption

Relative to non-academic surveys administered by a public school or a chartered public school to its students.

Impact

The passage of HB 380 would significantly alter how non-academic surveys are conducted in New Hampshire schools. School districts would face new obligations regarding communication with parents and managing survey opt-outs. While these changes aim to enhance parental involvement and protect student privacy, they may also lead to increased administrative responsibilities and costs. The fiscal note from the bill indicates that any financial impact will vary across districts, potentially resulting in indeterminable costs connected to the implementation of new policies and notification procedures.

Summary

House Bill 380 aims to regulate the administration of non-academic surveys in public and charter schools in New Hampshire. The bill mandates that school districts and chartered public schools create policies requiring them to inform parents or legal guardians about the non-academic surveys being administered to students. This notification must include the purpose of the survey and be delivered in writing through the students, and, optionally, via electronic means. The bill places restrictions on conducting surveys without parental consent, ensuring that students cannot be coerced into participating unless they are adults or emancipated minors.

Sentiment

General sentiment surrounding HB 380 seems to reflect a mixture of support and concern among stakeholders. Proponents believe that the measures will empower parents and safeguard students against unwanted intrusions into their personal lives. This perspective aligns with broader societal concerns regarding individual privacy and parental rights in educational settings. Conversely, some critics argue that the bill may over-regulate educational practices, leading to a cumbersome system that could inhibit essential data collection efforts that schools use to support student well-being and academic performance.

Contention

One notable point of contention arises from the required consent policies for non-academic surveys, with advocates asserting that parental involvement is crucial for protecting children, while opponents fear it could hinder schools from effectively assessing and addressing student health and social issues. Additionally, the bill's implications for schools' ability to engage in preventive initiatives could catalyze debates about balancing privacy rights and the need for comprehensive student support. The voting history indicates that there was a close decision, with the bill receiving more nays than yeas, highlighting the divisive nature of discussions around educational policies.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NH HB446

Relative to parental notice for non-academic surveys in public schools.

NH HB1191

Relative to parental notice for non-academic surveys in public schools.

NH SF217

A bill for an act relating to surveys administered to students or school employees.

NH HB3222

Relating to academic assessments administered to students by school districts.

NH HB1073

Relating to the academic assessment of public school students.

NH HB1548

requiring the department of education to collect and publish data regarding the costs associated with providing special education services to students of public, charter, private, trade, and other K-12 schools or academies.

NH S0773

Provides that the school year for all public schools, including traditional public and public charter schools, independent charter schools, and mayoral academies, would start on the same date of each calendar year.

NH S2017

Provides that the school year for all public schools, including traditional public and public charter schools, independent charter schools, and mayoral academies, would start on the same date of each calendar year.

NH H7482

Provides that the school year for all public schools, including traditional public and public charter schools, independent charter schools, and mayoral academies, would start on the same date of each calendar year.

NH HB1998

Schools; requiring parent permission to administer certain curriculum and surveys to students; effective date; emergency.

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