New Hampshire Republicans are moving forward with a slate of policy changes this year, using their control of both the Legislature and the governor’s office to advance priorities on education, immigration, and parental rights.

State lawmakers have approved a $15.9 billion two-year budget that includes cuts to Medicaid, the state university system, and the Department of Health and Human Services. Public education funding remains largely unchanged, continuing to place most of the burden on local property taxpayers. New Hampshire continues to rank among the states with the highest average property tax rates, as legal challenges to the school funding system remain unresolved.

Under the budget, the state’s motor vehicle safety inspection program is set to be repealed on January 31, reflecting public opposition to the requirement and similar moves in other states. Despite ongoing public support for legalizing recreational marijuana, lawmakers once again declined to advance legislation this year.

Education policy has been a central focus of Kelly Ayotte, who called for expanding Education Freedom Accounts in her January 9 inaugural address. On June 10, she signed a bill removing income limits from the program, opening it to families at all income levels. Enrollment has since nearly doubled to more than 10,500 students, including many who were not previously enrolled in public schools.

Ayotte also signed a new parental rights law that day, outlining parents’ authority over their children’s education and upbringing. Supporters say the measure strengthens communication between schools and families, while critics argue existing laws already cover these issues and warn the new language may be unclear.

Immigration policy has also moved to the forefront. On May 22, Ayotte approved two bills banning “sanctuary city” practices and expanding cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration officials. The Troy Police Department has cited its agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement as an example, reporting several arrests largely stemming from traffic stops.

Attention is now turning to the next legislative session, set to begin January 7, 2026. House Majority Leader Jason Osborne has said Republicans will pursue limits on school budget increases tied to inflation and student enrollment, while Democrats are preparing proposals focused on boosting public education funding and addressing housing shortages.

Republicans currently hold a 217–177 advantage in the House, with one independent member and five vacant seats. In the Senate, Republicans maintain a 16–8 majority.