New HampshireHB1312025-2026 Regular SessionHouseWALLET

(New Title) relative to bullying and cyberbullying prevention.

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.

Stronger consequences for bullying and retaliation

The law sets clear consequences for students and staff. Students who bully, retaliate, or file false reports can be suspended or expelled. Educators face professional discipline for breaking reporting rules, missing timelines, giving false information, or retaliating against reporters or parents. After a confirmed incident, the principal must create a plan to protect the victim and address the behavior. When needed, the principal must hold a meeting with the student who caused harm, the student’s parent or guardian, and staff, even if parents do not attend.

Faster bullying investigations and parent alerts

Local policies must say who can report and include the steps in the student handbook. Staff, coaches, and bus drivers must report to the principal or designee. Parents of the victim and alleged bully get notice within 48 hours, and the victim gets a written list of rights and supports. A superintendent may grant a written waiver of up to 5 school days (longer for cross-district cases). Schools start an investigation within 5 school days; the superintendent may extend it up to 7 more school days with written notice to families. Districts must work together on cross-district cases, and the first New Hampshire district contacts the attorney general for multi-state cases; principals also report every substantiated incident to the superintendent.

Stronger anti-bullying rules in schools

Every district and charter school must adopt a written anti-bullying and cyberbullying policy within six months after this law takes effect. It must use the state’s definition and, when possible, include input from students, parents, staff, volunteers, community members, and local police. Schools must put the policy in place across the district and tie it into classes, discipline, and behavior programs. The state education department may offer a model policy for schools to use. By January 1, 2027, each district and charter school must post a report or link showing how the policy is used and send it to state education leaders and legislative education committees.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Rick M Ladd
Republican • House

Cosponsors

Bob J. Lynn
Republican • House
Gregory G. Hill
Republican • House
Jim A Kofalt
Republican • House
Kenneth L Weyler
Republican • House
Kristin Noble
Republican • House
Margaret M Drye
Republican • House
Paul A Terry
Republican • House
Ruth Ward
Republican • Senate
Steven D Smith
Republican • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 190 • No: 149

House vote • 1/7/2026

OTPA