Teachers in New Hampshire could soon face criminal penalties simply for offering students access to important books.

Under House Bill 324, parents could challenge any book they find offensive and escalate those complaints directly to the state. The bill expands New Hampshire's obscenity laws in ways that critics say could criminalize teachers and librarians for sharing materials that deal with real-world issues like mental health, LGBTQ identity, sexual assault, or even classic art.

New Hampshire’s local school boards already have the authority to manage reading lists and respond to concerns. HB 324 is not about empowering parents. It is about threatening teachers, chilling honest education, and pushing censorship into every classroom.

Both the House and Senate have passed versions of this bill. If they agree on a final version, it will be up to Governor Kelly Ayotte to decide whether to sign it into law.

We call on New Hampshire legislators and Governor Ayotte to reject HB 324 and stand with the teachers who guide, protect, and inspire our students every day. Teachers should not face criminal charges for helping kids find hope, healing, and understanding through books.