Committee Summary for House Finance Division II (03/24/2025)

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
HB2 2024-1255h 00:02:55.920 - 9:00:36 AM	General Working Session	relative to state fees, funds, revenues, and expenditures.	Weyler, Kenneth(R)[B+]2024
HB2 2024-1255h 01:25:48.480 - 10:23:29 AM	General Working Session	relative to state fees, funds, revenues, and expenditures.	Weyler, Kenneth(R)[B+]2024

HB2 2024-1255h: Charlie McIntyre, Lottery Director, State of New Hampshire Information Only00:02:55.920 - 9:00:36 AM; Charlie McIntyre, the Lottery Director, discussed the implications of the proposed amendment 2024-1255h to HB2. He highlighted the challenges in estimating revenue due to the amendment's provisions, particularly the change from a 70/30 to a 90/10 split in floor space allocation between machines and table games. McIntyre explained that the original 70/30 split was negotiated to protect charity revenues, as table games provide a higher percentage of revenue to charities compared to machines. He expressed concerns that the new split could lead to a significant net loss for charities, potentially up to $17 million, and emphasized the need to reassess revenue estimates based on operator plans for floor space conversion. McIntyre also discussed the impact of high stakes tournaments and the proposed changes to the rake percentage, which he supported as a means to attract more revenue. He provided comparative data from other states regarding operator percentages and confirmed his ability to provide updated revenue estimates by the end of the day, contingent on the committee's decision on the floor space split.
HB2 2024-1255h: Kulie Royo, Chief Compliance Officer, State of New Hampshire Information Only00:03:55.280 - 9:01:36 AM; Kulie Royo, introduced as the Chief Compliance Officer responsible for the charitable gaming division, was present during the discussion but did not provide a separate testimony. Her role was mentioned in the context of the negotiations and rulemaking process related to historic horse racing.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Papovich Information Only00:11:59.760 - 9:09:40 AM; Representative Papovich summarized the concerns raised by McIntyre regarding the proposed 90/10 split and its impact on revenue forecasting and the gaming experience. He sought clarification on McIntyre's ability to provide accurate revenue estimates under the current amendment and expressed a view on maintaining commitments to charities while reserving the right to adjust funding levels based on overall revenue increases.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Murray Information Only00:15:10.000 - 9:12:51 AM; Representative Murray expressed concerns from the charitable gaming community about the proposed changes in the amendment, particularly the shift from 45% to 70% of revenue going to operators. He asked McIntyre for projections on how these changes would affect charity revenues and sought McIntyre's opinion on the high percentage allocated to operators, comparing it to other states.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Hacken Phillips Information Only00:17:49.760 - 9:15:30 AM; Representative Hacken Phillips inquired about changes to the high stakes tournaments mentioned in the amendment. McIntyre explained that the amendment aimed to lower the rake to attract high stakes tournaments, which are rare events and could drive more revenue due to the higher stakes involved.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Papovich Information Only00:25:41.360 - 9:23:22 AM; Representative Papovich expressed frustration about the long intervals between adjustments to gambling policies, particularly regarding the increase in scratch ticket prices. He mentioned that the last increase was in 2007 and emphasized the need for more frequent adjustments to avoid sudden changes that could be surprising or shocking. He supported the proposed increase to $50 tickets but encouraged more regular updates to gambling policies.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Hacken Phillips Information Only00:27:12.000 - 9:24:53 AM; Representative Hacken Phillips inquired about the regional trends in scratch ticket prices, noting that Massachusetts and Connecticut have $50 tickets, which attracts players from the southern region. He mentioned that New Hampshire aims to keep players within the state and compete with Massachusetts at higher price points, while Maine and Vermont have not yet adopted $50 tickets.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Kelly Information Only00:28:12.720 - 9:25:53 AM; Representative Kelly expressed concern about the state's heavy reliance on gambling revenue. While he had no objection to the proposed increase in scratch ticket prices to $50, he found it unfortunate that the state depended so much on gambling for financial support.
HB2 2024-1255h: Director McIntyre Information Only00:30:01.279 - 9:27:42 AM; Director McIntyre discussed the impact of sports betting during March Madness, noting it as the busiest time for sports betting in the state. He mentioned that the Super Bowl is the biggest single day, but the tournament's multiple games and public interest make it highly profitable. He reported that last year's sports betting revenue exceeded initial estimates, reaching $34 million.
HB2 2024-1255h: Vicki Information Only00:31:03.440 - 9:28:44 AM; Vicki discussed the potential changes to the gaming floor split between table games and slot machines. She noted the previous negotiations during the historic horse racing setup and suggested caution in altering the current 70/30 split to avoid disrupting established agreements. She believed diversifying the gaming options could attract more visitors.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Papovich Information Only00:32:07.679 - 9:29:48 AM; Representative Papovich expressed comfort with maintaining the 70/30 split for gaming floors, citing the long negotiations that led to the current agreement. He believed that operators know what floor structure is most profitable but felt that changing the split without further discussion could be disruptive.
HB2 2024-1255h: Charlie Information Only00:33:16.159 - 9:30:57 AM; Charlie presented a new packet and discussed the VLT amendment, suggesting a review of the amendments in order. He mentioned holding off on certain sections until more information was available and proposed voting on other sections immediately.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Kavich Information Only00:35:14.079 - 9:32:55 AM; Representative Kavich asked about the possibility of amending the VLT section to reflect a 70/30 split instead of the proposed 90/10. He suggested waiting for further input from Mr. McIntyre before making a decision.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Murray Information Only00:36:15.599 - 9:33:56 AM; Representative Murray discussed the proposed amendment to move certain programs from the Education Trust Fund to the General Fund. He sought clarification on which programs would be affected and expressed a desire to delay the vote until he could further consider the implications.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Papovich Information Only00:39:07.920 - 9:36:48 AM; Representative Papovich confirmed that the amendment regarding the Education Trust Fund and General Fund was about changing the source of funds without altering the funding levels. He noted that the policy had shifted back and forth in previous budgets based on fund availability.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Murray Information Only00:40:00.000 - 9:37:41 AM; Representative Murray requested a delay in voting on the amendment until 1:00 PM to allow time for further consideration. He wanted to assess the appropriateness of certain programs for the Education Trust Fund and consider the potential impact on funding levels.
HB2 2024-1255h: Charlie Information Only00:41:59.760 - 9:39:40 AM; Charlie presented section 123 of HB2, which was a procedural change requested by the Department of Education regarding the final determination of adequacy grants. He noted that there was no budget impact and suggested the committee could accept this section.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Papovich Information Only00:43:34.880 - 9:41:15 AM; Representative Papovich made a motion to approve section 123 of HB2 as proposed by the governor, and it was seconded by Representative Bean. The motion passed with seven votes in favor and none opposed.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Papovich Information Only00:45:55.760 - 9:43:36 AM; Representative Papovich made a motion to adopt section 179 of HB2, which would allow the lottery to increase the maximum ticket price from $30 to $50. The motion was seconded by Representative Bean and passed with seven votes in favor and none opposed.
HB2 2024-1255h: Charlie Information Only00:46:59.520 - 9:44:40 AM; Charlie discussed sections 180 and 181 of HB2, which relate to the business profits tax and business enterprise tax splits between the General Fund and the Education Trust Fund. He suggested holding off on these sections until more information was available on the Education Trust Fund's status.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Murray Information Only00:47:45.359 - 9:45:26 AM; Representative Murray expressed concern about the proposed changes to the tobacco tax and real estate transfer tax splits, questioning the rationale behind moving funds out of the Education Trust Fund. He requested more information before voting.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Kelly Information Only00:49:35.440 - 9:47:16 AM; Representative Kelly was not comfortable voting on the proposed changes to the tobacco tax and real estate transfer tax splits without further processing the information. He requested a delay in the vote.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Papovich Information Only00:50:34.359 - 9:48:15 AM; Representative Papovich supported the minor adjustments to the tobacco tax and real estate transfer tax splits, noting that setting dollar amounts in statute can be problematic due to inflation. He agreed with the concept of using percentages to automatically adjust to new revenues.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Kelly Information Only00:52:35.440 - 9:50:16 AM; Representative Kelly raised a concern about whether the proposed changes to the tobacco tax and real estate transfer tax splits would violate house rules, given that changes to tobacco taxes were indefinitely postponed on the floor the previous week. He requested a ruling from the clerk.
HB2 2024-1255h: Charlie Information Only00:54:43.839 - 9:52:24 AM; Charlie presented the language from House Bill 129, which is relative to evidence-based practices within public education, as an amendment to HB2. He noted that the committee had previously discussed HB129 in detail.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Murray Oppose00:55:19.119 - 9:53:00 AM; Representative Murray expressed skepticism about the evidence-based nature of the amendment, describing it as 'smoke and mirrors' and indicated an intention to vote against it.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Papovich Information Only00:56:36.040 - 9:54:17 AM; Representative Papovich moved to adopt amendment 1189H to HB2, which was seconded by Representative Bean.
HB2 2024-1255h: Chris Shay, LBA Information Only00:56:36.040 - 9:54:17 AM; Chris Shay from the Legislative Budget Assistant's office provided detailed information on the proposed changes to the real estate transfer and tobacco tax distributions. He explained the current complexities and how the proposed percentage splits would simplify the allocation of funds to different state funds.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Papovich Information Only01:00:26.079 - 9:58:07 AM; Representative Papovich moved to adopt section 183 of HB2 regarding the tax on transfer of real property distribution of funds, which was seconded by Representative Hacken Phillips.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Kelly Support01:01:43.520 - 9:59:24 AM; Representative Kelly introduced amendment 1213H related to Medicaid direct certification, explaining it as a pilot program to simplify the certification process for free or reduced-price school meals. The amendment aims to assess the impact on student meal access, behavior, and academic outcomes without increasing adequacy funding.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Papovich Oppose01:06:36.640 - 10:04:17 AM; Representative Papovich opposed the Medicaid direct certification amendment, arguing that it attempts to reintroduce a previously failed bill into the budget process. He highlighted the lack of specific examples of students denied food due to inability to pay and expressed concerns about the amendment's similarity to rejected proposals.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Kelly Support01:07:45.000 - 10:05:26 AM; Representative Kelly clarified that the Medicaid direct certification amendment was tabled, not voted down, on the House floor. They emphasized the pilot nature of the program and its potential to provide valuable data on food insecurity among students.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Support01:08:48.479 - 10:06:29 AM; The representative supported the Medicaid direct certification amendment, noting its pilot status and lack of fiscal impact, suggesting it as an opportunity to gather crucial data on student hunger.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Kelly Support01:09:55.360 - 10:07:36 AM; Representative Kelly moved to pass the Medicaid direct certification amendment, which was seconded by Representative Murray.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Murray Information Only01:11:00.920 - 10:08:41 AM; Representative Murray sought clarification on the tobacco tax distribution amendment, understanding it as an attempt to smooth out the erratic nature of current distributions.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Papovich Information Only01:12:08.159 - 10:09:49 AM; Representative Papovich moved to adopt section 182 of HB2 regarding the tobacco tax distribution of funds, which was seconded by Representative Bean.
HB2 2024-1255h: Mr. Landigan Information Only01:13:07.440 - 10:10:48 AM; Mr. Landigan introduced amendment 1270H, which sets a floor for special education aid at 80% and includes technical edits suggested by the department. The amendment aims to ensure consistent funding for special education.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Papovich Support01:14:59.840 - 10:12:40 AM; Representative Papovich moved to adopt amendment 1270H to HB2 regarding special education aid, highlighting the significance of having a funding floor and the department's suggested changes.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Haga Phillips Support01:17:33.800 - 10:15:14 AM; Representative Haga Phillips supported amendment 1270H, referencing its passage in the policy committee and the department's reasonable explanation for the proposed changes.
HB2 2024-1255h: Mr. Landigan Information Only01:18:33.920 - 10:16:14 AM; Mr. Landigan introduced amendment 1269H related to state adequacy grants, noting it would increase funding by approximately $26 million in fiscal year 27.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Haga Phillips Information Only01:19:25.080 - 10:17:06 AM; Representative Haga Phillips reminded the committee of the policy committee's support for amendment 1269H and confirmed the fiscal impact for fiscal year 27.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Papovich Information Only01:20:02.120 - 10:17:43 AM; Representative Papovich moved to adopt amendment 1269H to HB2 regarding state adequacy grants, which was seconded by Representative Bean.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Information Only01:22:19.440 - 10:20:00 AM; The representative introduced amendment 1272H, which removes work experience requirements for certain teacher qualifications, leaving hiring decisions to local schools.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Haga Phillips Oppose01:23:20.840 - 10:21:01 AM; Representative Haga Phillips expressed concerns about amendment 1272H, highlighting potential negative impacts on classroom management and educational standards due to the removal of experience requirements for educators.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Povpich Oppose01:25:48.480 - 10:23:29 AM; Representative Povpich expressed strong objection to the amendment, highlighting that over 300 people had submitted testimony against similar changes in the past. They argued that the amendment would not impact employment standards significantly since it wouldn't force schools to hire inexperienced teachers but would merely remove a state mandate. They emphasized the practical reasons for allowing schools flexibility in hiring without a one-size-fits-all policy.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Kelly Information Only01:26:54.880 - 10:24:35 AM; Representative Kelly inquired about the amendment's effect on the definition of adequacy and fiscal impact, to which it was clarified that the amendment pertains to rules under section 506 and would have a local fiscal impact.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Murray Oppose01:27:44.159 - 10:25:25 AM; Representative Murray voiced concerns about the amendment, suggesting it was a significant policy change that could allow individuals without educational experience to teach. They were apprehensive about the lack of required experience and expressed opposition to the amendment.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Papovich Support01:29:10.679 - 10:26:51 AM; Representative Papovich moved to adopt amendment 1272H to HB2 regarding education certification standards and employee qualifications. They clarified that the amendment does not remove certification but only the requirement for prior teaching experience.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Hacken Phillips Oppose01:29:58.719 - 10:27:39 AM; Representative Hacken Phillips expressed strong opposition to the amendment, emphasizing the lack of notice and the potential devastating impact on classrooms across the state. They were concerned about the policy change's ripple effects and the lack of input from experts and stakeholders. They worried about the potential for schools to hire less experienced staff, which could lower educational standards and impact school budgets.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Murray Oppose01:35:08.480 - 10:32:49 AM; Representative Murray further opposed the amendment, expressing disbelief that educators wouldn't need professional training to teach. They were concerned about the significant policy change and questioned who was proposing such a change.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Papovich Support01:36:14.639 - 10:33:55 AM; Representative Papovich clarified that the amendment does not remove the need for education but only the requirement for prior employment experience. They suggested delaying the vote to allow members time to understand the amendment better.
HB2 2024-1255h: Brian Hawkins, NEA New Hampshire Oppose01:38:36.719 - 10:36:17 AM; Brian Hawkins from NEA New Hampshire opposed the amendment to remove the professional standards board, emphasizing the importance of input from practitioners in the field. He suggested a future discussion on this issue rather than immediate action.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Hacken Phillips Oppose01:39:46.000 - 10:37:27 AM; Representative Hacken Phillips raised concerns about the lack of professional input in rulemaking and the potential impact of removing the professional standards board. They highlighted previous public outcry over the lack of professional feedback in education policy changes.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Hacken Phillips Oppose01:44:06.239 - 10:41:47 AM; Representative Hacken Phillips expressed concern over the repeal of protections related to sexual misconduct at higher education institutions, especially in light of recent federal executive orders. They questioned the remaining guardrails for such policies and the impact on stakeholders.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Murray Oppose01:45:21.679 - 10:43:02 AM; Representative Murray was uncomfortable with the amendments, particularly the one removing the requirement for higher education institutions to collaborate with local law enforcement on sexual misconduct policies. They emphasized the importance of hearing from all stakeholders before making such significant changes.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Kelly Information Only01:47:11.280 - 10:44:52 AM; Representative Kelly raised concerns about the enforcement of federal laws like the Clery Act if the Department of Education is reduced in size, questioning who would oversee such laws.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Hacken Phillips Oppose01:48:20.480 - 10:46:01 AM; Representative Hacken Phillips opposed the repeal of the sexual misconduct survey, citing the structured system in place and the need for a public hearing before such a significant policy change.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Landan Support01:48:20.480 - 10:46:01 AM; Representative Landan introduced amendment 1265H, which increases the fee for vanity license plates from $40 to $60, estimating a revenue increase of over $6 million over the biennium. They supported the amendment as a way to update a long-standing fee and address funding needs for public transportation programs.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Papovich Information Only01:50:20.840 - 10:48:01 AM; Representative Papovich moved to adopt amendment 1265H to HB2. He noted that the amendment involves moving a fixed amount of dollars out, leaving the remainder, and suggested that while no action should be taken at this time, it could be a candidate for future legislative cleanup.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Murray Support01:51:31.040 - 10:49:12 AM; Representative Murray supported item 6B, which proposes to increase the Department of Transportation's budget by $1.5 million annually for transit operating match. He emphasized the importance of public transit for community members needing to access work, groceries, medical care, and general mobility, stating that without this funding, many people's lives would be significantly impacted.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Papovich Information Only01:52:42.560 - 10:50:23 AM; Representative Papovich moved to approve item 6B, which would increase funding for AU2916 by $1.5 million each fiscal year, totaling $3 million over the biennium. He highlighted the motion's support and its seconding by Representative Murray, which passed with a unanimous vote.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Landrean Information Only01:53:58.400 - 10:51:39 AM; Representative Landrean discussed amendment 123H related to motor vehicle fees, explaining that it would generate an estimated $45 million in revenue over the biennium for the highway fund. He detailed potential savings and shifts in funding, including changes to the Department of Safety and Department of Transportation budgets, and adjustments to highway block grants to cities and towns, projecting an $11.6 million surplus at the end of the biennium.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Papovich Information Only01:54:58.560 - 10:52:39 AM; Representative Papovich clarified that the $45 million revenue from amendment 123H would be realized over one and a half years due to implementation timing, while the expenditures are for the full biennium. He emphasized that this would lead to a more positive long-term impact on the highway fund, suggesting a healthy financial situation for a predictable period.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Landrean Information Only01:55:59.440 - 10:53:40 AM; Representative Landrean provided further details on amendment 123H, correcting figures on motor vehicle fees and explaining shifts in funding from general to highway funds within the Department of Safety. He also discussed the Department of Transportation's retention incentive program and winter maintenance funding, noting adjustments to be made post-decision to ensure accurate budget figures.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Havich Information Only01:59:32.000 - 10:57:13 AM; Representative Havich moved to adopt amendment 123H to HB2, including changes described on pages six, seven, and eight of the document, which were seconded and passed unanimously.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Heen Phillips Support02:00:17.760 - 10:57:58 AM; Representative Heen Phillips commended the creativity in addressing the needs of the Department of Safety and Department of Transportation, particularly in meeting winter maintenance and commercial enforcement requirements, which are essential for daily operations in the state.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Papovich Information Only02:01:51.040 - 10:59:32 AM; Representative Papovich confirmed the committee's decision to hold the amendment related to the University System of New Hampshire using funds from the New Hampshire Excellence and Higher Education Endowment Trust Fund. He noted that the amendment would be held to vote on all funding changes simultaneously, not due to any disagreement within the committee. He sought clarification on whether there was a specific reason for holding the amendment, indicating that the committee had not yet decided on the overall funding for the university system.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Murray Support02:02:51.199 - 11:00:32 AM; Representative Murray expressed support for the amendment to use funds from the New Hampshire Excellence and Higher Education Endowment Trust Fund to fund $30 million of the University System of New Hampshire's budget. He acknowledged the plan to save $30 million in general funds and questioned the overall plans for the university system, which were still pending. He noted that the amendment would reduce the general fund appropriation to the UNH system from the governor's proposed $91 million to $75 or $76 million.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Papovich Information Only02:04:24.199 - 11:02:05 AM; Representative Papovich moved to adopt amendment 0862H to HB2, which would use funds from the New Hampshire Excellence and Higher Education Endowment Trust Fund for USNH support. The motion was seconded by Representative Bean, and there was no further discussion before the vote, which passed unanimously 7-0.
HB2 2024-1255h: Committee Chair Information Only02:05:15.520 - 11:02:56 AM; The committee chair suggested moving to discuss the Department of Education proposed reductions without voting on them, as they were on pages nine and ten of the committee materials. The committee agreed to discuss the items without voting immediately, with the intention to possibly vote on them all at once later.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Information Only02:06:04.880 - 11:03:45 AM; The representative provided an overview of the Department of Education's proposed reductions on pages nine and ten. He discussed the first item, the 2171 accounting unit, which had been funded with federal grants for about $10 million over eight years. The program is now in maintenance mode, not requiring additional funds, and would retain two positions for ongoing support. The second item was a position budgeted for out-of-state travel, previously reduced by the committee. The third item was the robotics education fund, suggesting that local schools should now take over the program. The fourth item was adult education funding, deemed unnecessary as it was not effectively used for its intended purpose. The fifth item was a program in the Department of Health and Human Services that did not need to be duplicated by the Department of Education. The sixth item was a management position in the Office of Information Technology, which was vacant and deemed unnecessary by the Department of Education.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Information Only02:11:54.320 - 11:09:35 AM; The representative discussed the Department of Education's building rent increase, noting that the state now owned the building, which led to a $250,000 per year increase in rent. He suggested reducing the rent to the previous level, but acknowledged it might be contentious. The representative also addressed the advanced placement fee, explaining that while the program was meant to help students pay for tests, very little of the allocated money was being used. A discussion followed about the potential implications of these changes, including legal risks and the allocation of funds between state departments.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Papovich Information Only04:03:19.840 - 1:01:00 PM; Representative Papovich discussed amendment 1294H to HB2, which would move programs from the education trust fund to the general fund, reflecting changes made in the previous budget cycle. He argued for the importance of showing value for education through spending rather than the source of funds. He noted the need for fiscal prudence and avoiding locked-up funds in dedicated accounts, referencing the YDC settlement as an example of potential unknown expenses.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Hen Phillips Information Only04:04:27.199 - 1:02:08 PM; Representative Hen Phillips questioned whether the other body would be more receptive to the proposed changes this time. He expressed concerns about dedicated funds, preferring funds to be held in the general fund for flexibility, especially given potential unknown expenses like the YDC settlement.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Papovich Information Only04:04:42.359 - 1:02:23 PM; Representative Papovich moved to adopt amendment 1294H to HB2 regarding the uses of the education trust fund. The motion was seconded by Representative Bean and passed with a vote of 4-3. The committee also considered other education-related amendments but decided to focus on the Department of Education reductions first.
HB2 2024-1255h: Committee Chair Information Only04:06:40.520 - 1:04:21 PM; The committee chair proposed discussing the Department of Education reductions on pages nine and ten of the tracking sheet. The committee agreed to consider these items one at a time. The first item, related to accounting unit 2171, was passed with a unanimous vote of 7-0. The second item, related to accounting unit 25003, was also passed unanimously with a vote of 7-0. The third item, related to the robotics education fund, was discussed with a reminder of its purpose and the decision to have local schools take over the program. The committee voted to adopt the proposed changes for the first three items.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Information Only04:10:14.399 - 1:07:55 PM; The speaker discussed fiscal year 24 budget considerations, suggesting potential cuts in certain areas while leaving some funds as a contingency. They proposed changes in accounting unit 4021, item number three on page nine of the tracking sheet, to remove about half a million dollars over the biennium.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Murray Oppose04:11:04.880 - 1:08:45 PM; Representative Murray expressed strong support for adult education, acknowledging the necessity of the proposed cuts due to financial constraints but unwilling to support further reductions in this area. They emphasized the importance of adult education beyond the discussed issues.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Papovich Information Only04:11:54.359 - 1:09:35 PM; Representative Papovich moved to implement budget cuts in accounting unit 4039, item number four on page 10 of the tracking sheet, proposing to remove $834,000 per year over the biennium.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Murray Oppose04:12:40.680 - 1:10:21 PM; Representative Murray argued against cutting the Office of Early Childhood Education, despite it never being filled. They highlighted the importance of early childhood education and the minimal cost of maintaining the office, suggesting it was worth funding despite the position's vacancy.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Papovich Support04:14:51.120 - 1:12:32 PM; Representative Papovich supported the removal of support expenses for the Office of Early Childhood Education, arguing that since the positions were already abolished, there was no value in keeping the budget for support.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Kelly Information Only04:16:11.840 - 1:13:52 PM; Representative Kelly questioned the purpose of maintaining the budget for the Office of Early Childhood Education, especially since the position was never filled and the related programming was moved to the Department of Health and Human Services.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Papovich Support04:17:09.640 - 1:14:50 PM; Representative Papovich moved to approve budget changes in accounting unit 3474, item number five on page 10, proposing a reduction of about $120,000 in the Department of Education's expenditures.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Murray Oppose04:18:25.920 - 1:16:06 PM; Representative Murray expressed concerns about cutting a vacant OIT manager position, arguing that the work associated with the position still needed to be done and could result in additional charges from the Department of Information Technology.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Papovich Support04:19:29.960 - 1:17:10 PM; Representative Papovich clarified that the Department of Information Technology could only charge for actual work done by assigned personnel, not for unfilled positions. They supported the removal of the OIT manager position, stating that the Department of Education was managing without it.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Information Only04:20:16.040 - 1:17:57 PM; The speaker moved to accept budget changes in accounting unit 4275, item number six on page 10, proposing to reduce the Department of Education's expenditures by about $137,500 per year.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Information Only04:22:07.120 - 1:19:48 PM; The speaker discussed the remaining items on the agenda, focusing on the funding of education trust fund programs, including charter schools. They explained the adjustments made to the funding estimates for new charter schools, adjusting the per pupil count from 75% to 50% for yet-to-be-approved schools.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Papovich Information Only04:23:16.359 - 1:20:57 PM; Representative Papovich made a motion to approve changes to HB1 related to charter school grants as described in item number two on page 12 of the current tracking sheet. The motion was seconded by Representative Bean, and the vote resulted in seven in favor with no opposition.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Pavich Information Only04:24:07.920 - 1:21:48 PM; Representative Pavich commented on the phase out grants, noting that these are the last batches and no new students will trigger them. They represent payments for obligations from past students. A discussion followed about the duration of the phase out grants, with clarification that they extend over three years.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Kelly Information Only04:26:22.120 - 1:24:03 PM; Representative Kelly discussed the phase out grants, confirming that they are spread over three years and that the numbers were adjusted based on department recommendations. A motion was made to amend HB1 to budget for the phase out grants, totaling 2.1 million over the biennium, which was seconded by Representative Bean and passed with seven in favor.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Murray Oppose04:27:19.960 - 1:25:00 PM; Representative Murray expressed opposition to expanding the Education Freedom Accounts (EFA), citing strong public pushback and numerous emails against the expansion. They mentioned only receiving one email in support and emphasized the unpopularity of the program.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Hagen Phillips Oppose04:28:30.880 - 1:26:11 PM; Representative Hagen Phillips shared insights from a public hearing in Manchester, where the majority opposed expanding the EFA program. Two individuals supported it but only for families below 350% of the poverty line needing special education assistance. Hagen Phillips decided not to vote in favor of the expansion based on these comments.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Support04:30:57.120 - 1:28:38 PM; The representative clarified that EFAs are not vouchers as the state gives money to parents, not directly to schools. They argued that every child has a right to adequate education regardless of economic status and supported the EFA program as it stands, while respecting differing opinions.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Kelly Oppose04:32:04.960 - 1:29:45 PM; Representative Kelly explained that EFA funds go to the Children's Scholarship Program, not directly to parents. They mentioned a unanimous town meeting decision against the EFA program and the need to address high property taxes instead of expanding the voucher program.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Murray Oppose04:33:23.199 - 1:31:04 PM; Representative Murray criticized the EFA program for lacking guardrails, such as annual reapplication, and for not being subject to state assessments. They argued for more accountability and transparency in the program, expressing frustration over the resistance to implementing reasonable compromises.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Information Only04:35:14.118 - 1:32:55 PM; The representative proposed to hold off on voting on the EFA and other items until the next day, suggesting a review of outstanding requests and a summary of financial impacts from decisions made so far.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Hacken Phillips Information Only04:36:26.879 - 1:34:07 PM; Representative Hacken Phillips requested a summary of financial impacts from decisions made so far, akin to a profit and loss statement, to understand the savings and new expenditures.
HB2 2024-1255h: Representative Hard Information Only04:38:31.680 - 1:36:12 PM; Representative Hard inquired about the status of item number eight on page three, which was related to construction lines and marked as TBD. It was clarified that this item had been voted on earlier and needed to be updated.
HB2 2024-1255h: Unidentified Speaker Information Only04:40:51.520 - 1:38:32 PM; The speaker confirmed being all set and ready to close the Division 2 Finance work session on the topic of education related to bill HB2 and amendment 2024-1255h.