A significant discussion unfolded at the Somersworth School Board meeting on July 30, 2025, as members considered joining a prospective lawsuit against New Hampshire regarding the controversial anti-Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) legislation included in House Bill 2. This potential legal action, organized by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), aims to challenge the implications of the new law, which some argue threatens essential funding for public education.

The board emphasized the importance of transparency, assuring that all expenditures related to the lawsuit would be publicly detailed. The stakes are high, with approximately $11 million—about 30% of the current school budget—potentially at risk due to the legislation. This figure dwarfs the $1 to $2 million in federal funding tied to an ongoing lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Education, which the district is also involved in.

Members reviewed a comprehensive packet detailing House Bill 2, highlighting sections pertinent to the anti-DEI provisions. The discussion underscored the urgency of the situation, as the New Hampshire legislation is perceived to be more severe than previous federal guidelines, with vague language that could jeopardize special education programs by categorizing them as DEI initiatives.

The board is not alone in this consideration; all four school districts involved in the earlier lawsuit are contemplating participation in this new legal challenge. The next steps will be crucial, with a decision expected in August regarding the ongoing lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Education, which shares similar concerns about the implications of DEI policies.

As the board navigates these complex legal waters, the potential impact on funding and educational programming remains a pressing concern for the community. The outcome of this prospective lawsuit could shape the future of educational equity in New Hampshire.