On January 23, 2025, the New Hampshire Legislature introduced House Bill 770, aimed at incentivizing community service among students by offering tuition credits for volunteer work. The bill proposes that students who complete 100 hours of volunteer service at approved sites, such as nursing homes, food banks, or homeless shelters, will be eligible for a tuition credit of $2,500 per year, with a maximum of eight credits totaling $20,000 over eight years.

Key provisions of the bill specify that tuition credits will not be available to high school students attending public universities outside of New Hampshire or those enrolled in private colleges or universities. Additionally, students from private high schools or preparatory schools are excluded from eligibility.

To facilitate this program, the bill establishes a dedicated fund known as the "triple win fund," which will be maintained separately from other state funds. This fund will be appropriated to the Department of Education for the distribution of tuition credits and may also receive donations and grants from various sources. The commissioner of the Department of Education is tasked with adopting rules regarding approved volunteer sites, eligibility criteria, and the distribution process for the tuition credits.

As of now, the fiscal impact of House Bill 770 remains undetermined, as the Office of Legislative Budget Assistant is awaiting further information from the Department of Education and the University and Community College Systems of New Hampshire. This uncertainty raises questions about the financial viability of the program and its potential implications for state education funding.

The introduction of this bill has sparked discussions among lawmakers and educational institutions regarding its potential benefits and drawbacks. Proponents argue that it could enhance community engagement among students while alleviating the financial burden of higher education. However, concerns have been raised about the limitations on eligibility and the sustainability of the funding model.

House Bill 770 is set to take effect 60 days after its passage, pending further legislative review and fiscal analysis. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its implications for students and educational institutions in New Hampshire will continue to be closely monitored.