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House passes parental bill of rights after heated debate over school disclosure rules
Summary
Lawmakers approved legislation affirming parental rights in education, and considered separate but related mandatory-disclosure rules for school employees after lengthy debate over a "clear and convincing" evidence standard and how disclosures intersect with child-abuse investigations.
The New Hampshire House on Thursday approved legislation establishing a parental bill of rights and separately debated related mandatory-disclosure rules for school employees after hours of floor amendments and public testimony.
Supporters said the bill reaffirms parents’ central role in the upbringing and education of their children. Opponents — including educators, child welfare advocates and some lawmakers — warned that certain language in amendments could make it harder for school staff to report suspected child abuse and could undermine students’ confidential access to school counselors and clinicians.
Lawmakers spent much of the morning and early afternoon arguing over the meaning and effect of the phrase “clear and convincing evidence” in the…
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