CONCORD, N.H. (AP) — A bill aimed at better protecting New Hampshire students from discrimination has been sent to Republican Gov. Chris Sununu.
The House voted 211-141 in favor of the bill Wednesday. It had passed the state Senate in March.
It would prohibit discrimination against students in public schools based on age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, marital status, familial status, disability, religion or national origin. Supporters said there is a gap in existing law when it comes to students because while federal anti-discrimination laws apply in schools, the state’s new civil rights unit in the attorney general’s office does not have jurisdiction over such matters. Opponents argued unsuccessfully for an amendment that would have limited the bill’s scope.
The bill was recommended by the Governor’s Advisory Council on Diversity and Inclusion.
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