HB 1337
Repeals the NH Council on Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Status
Passed House March 11, 2026. Vote: 178–155.
Vote: 178 Yea — 155 Nay
Sponsor
Rep. Foss (R-Hillsborough)
TL;DR
Eliminates the state council that coordinates healthcare, education, and services for people with autism — a body created by the legislature in 2008. While this isn't directly an "education" bill, the council's work includes educational support and policy recommendations for students on the spectrum. Removing it strips away an advocacy body for some of the most vulnerable students. Passed 178–155.
Full Analysis
The NH Council on Autism Spectrum Disorders was created in 2008 to coordinate services across healthcare, education, and social services for people with autism. It provides policy recommendations, identifies gaps in services, and advocates for the autism community.
HB 1337 repeals the council entirely. The stated rationale is typically "government efficiency" or reducing bureaucracy, but the council costs virtually nothing to operate — its members are volunteers. What it provides is institutional knowledge, cross-agency coordination, and a voice for families navigating the complex intersection of education, healthcare, and disability services.
For students on the autism spectrum, the council helps ensure that educational services — speech therapy, occupational therapy, behavioral support, transition planning — are coordinated with healthcare providers and community services. Eliminating it doesn't save meaningful money; it just removes the only state-level body specifically focused on ensuring these students don't fall through the cracks.
Bill statuses as of March 2026. Check LegiScan or NH General Court for the latest.