New Hampshire Enacts Universal School Choice

On Tuesday, New Hampshire officially became the latest state to implement universal school choice, joining 12 others across the nation.

Republican Governor Kelly Ayotte signed legislation to expand the state’s school voucher program, eliminating income restrictions that had been in place during its initial four years. “Allowing families to choose the educational setting that best suits their children’s needs will help all students in our state reach their full potential,” Ayotte remarked. She expressed pride in signing this law alongside a Parents’ Bill of Rights, emphasizing the importance of parental involvement in education.

The voucher program will provide families with at least $4,265 per student for educational expenses, including tuition at private institutions. For those in need, the support could reach up to $9,676 annually.

Prior to this new legislation, eligibility for vouchers was limited, with fewer than half of New Hampshire students qualifying. Corey Deangelis, a senior fellow at the American Culture Project, pointed out the teachers’ union’s influence in keeping schools closed during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“With New Hampshire as the 17th state to adopt universal school choice in just four years, it’s clear there’s growing momentum for educational freedom,” Deangelis added.

New Hampshire now joins a growing list of states expanding educational options. Arizona took the lead in 2022 by becoming the first to offer universal school choice for all families, launching a program providing $7,000 for tuition costs.

As the conversation around educational policies evolves, it seems likely more states will consider similar measures, potentially reshaping the landscape of public education.