Senate considers bill to address discrimination in schools

CONCORD, N.H. (AP) — Supporters of a bill before a Senate committee say it would offer New Hampshire children greater protection from discrimination at school and a clearer path to bringing complaints. But opponents say they already have options under current law.

The Senate Judiciary Committee held a public hearing Monday on a bill recommended by the Governor's Advisory Council on Diversity. It says there is a gap in existing law when it comes to children 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.