Ehrin Kelly

To the Honorable Members of the House Executive Departments and Administration Committee, My name is Ehrin. I am a middle school educator in Concord, and I am also a resident of New Boston. I am writing to respectfully oppose House Bill 1788, which attempts to amend the state’s existing prohibition on diversity, equity, and inclusion–related programs in public education and the public sector. As an educator, I am deeply concerned that HB 1788 fails to address the serious constitutional and practical problems that led to the current law being enjoined by a federal court. Rather than clarifying or correcting the statute’s vague and overbroad language, this bill expands its reach and increases the penalties for educators and schools. HB 1788 would make alleged violations of this unclear law violations of the Educator Code of Conduct, placing educators’ professional licenses at risk. This creates a chilling effect in classrooms and schools, where educators may avoid lawful, age-appropriate instruction or student support out of fear of investigation or punishment. That fear does not improve education—it undermines it. As a middle school educator, I work with students who are learning how to navigate differences, build empathy, and understand their place in a diverse society. Policies that discourage honest discussion, inclusive practices, or student support services make it harder for schools to meet students’ academic and social-emotional needs. I am also troubled by the bill’s provisions expanding investigations and directing courts to declare contracts void if they are found to include vaguely defined prohibited language. This creates legal uncertainty for school districts and municipalities and invites costly litigation, rather than providing clear guidance or stability. As a New Hampshire resident, I value local control, due process, and limited government. HB 1788 moves in the opposite direction by expanding an already unconstitutional law and inserting the state more deeply into local educational decision-making. For these reasons, as both an educator in Concord and a resident of New Boston, I urge the committee to oppose HB 1788 and instead consider repealing the underlying statute rather than expanding it. Thank you for your time and consideration. Respectfully, Ehrin Kelly Middle School Educator, Concord Resident, New Boston