Senate Republicans support funding stabilization grants for schools

Concord, NH – Today, the New Hampshire Senate passed SB 309-FN-L, a bill to restore stabilization grants to 2012 levels. After passage the bill was tabled. Senator Regina Birdsell (R-Hampstead), prime sponsor of the legislation, Senator Bob Giuda (R-Warren) and Senator Sharon Carson, co-sponsors of the legislation, issued the following statements:

“I am pleased the Senate has voted to restore stabilization grants to communities across New Hampshire who have been paying some of the highest property tax rates in the state.” said Senator Regina Birdsell (R-Hampstead), prime sponsor of the legislation. “While we need to find a permanent fix to the funding formula, this legislation will provide the resources many of our school districts need to keep our public school system the best in the country. It is disappointing this bill was tabled rather than go straight to the House for a vote, but it is my hope that stabilization grants will be made a priority in the budget.”

“Stabilization grants are a critical piece of New Hampshire’s school funding, particularly for towns in the North Country which struggle with high property tax rates in order to fund public education,” said Senator Bob Giuda (R-Warren), co-sponsor of the legislation. “I am proud to co-sponsor this legislation that will provide some of the highest taxed towns some relief while the state looks to a permanent fix for the funding formula. I look forward to working with the Senate Finance Committee to make sure this critical funding is a part of the budget that passes this year.”

“The New Hampshire education funding formula is not working, but the stabilization grants have been one tool the state has used to ensure every child has an adequate education,” said Senator Sharon Carson (R-Londonderry), a co-sponsor of the legislation. “Unfortunately, the stabilization grants have been getting smaller each year and our school systems cannot afford another cut. I am thankful for Senator Birdsell for submitting this legislation and am proud to have cast a vote today to support a great education system for our children.”