HB1524

House · 2026 sessionDemocraticKilled in House

Logic and critical thinking course

Requires a logic and critical thinking course to be taught as part of the curriculum in all state high schools and directs the state board of education to develop related policy guidelines.

requiring a logic and critical thinking course within the state high school education curriculum.

Education - General

Status

Killed in the House — Inexpedient to Legislate · February 12, 2026

✓Introduced
✕House
Senate
Governor
Law

Division of testimony

58 submissions

Support 54Oppose 3Neutral 1

Carla BillinghamSupportSalem, NHfor MyselfJan 14, 2026

Logic and critical thinking are the foundation of intelligence. Together they create the ability to make wise decisions throughout one's growth and development.

Georgina LambertOpposeBelmont, NHfor MyselfJan 14, 2026

Testimony Against HB 1524: Harmful Underpinnings in Curriculum Mandates While the intention behind HB 1524—to introduce a logic and critical thinking course into New Hampshire high school curricula—may seem beneficial, it is crucial to critically examine the underlying implications of such a mandate. This legislation risks reinforcing existing inequities by imposing a one-size-fits-all approach to education that may not consider the diverse backgrounds of students. Critical thinking skills are not universally applicable in the same way; they must be contextualized within students’ lived experiences and cultural backgrounds. This bill, if passed, could unintentionally marginalize those who do not share the same educational privileges or access to resources, thereby perpetuating systemic disparities. Furthermore, mandating such a course without adequate funding or resources raises ethical concerns regarding the feasibility and effectiveness of implementation. Schools in under-resourced areas may struggle to develop or deliver a quality logic and critical thinking curriculum, exacerbating inequalities in educational outcomes. Moreover, the absence of a dedicated funding mechanism limits opportunities for equitable teacher training and support, ultimately reducing the quality of education for the very students this bill aims to benefit. A commitment to critical thinking must transcend mere curricular requirements; it should include a thoughtful, inclusive dialogue about how best to equip all students—particularly those from marginalized communities—with the skills they need to navigate a complex world without reinforcing existing inequities.

Joanna AndrosSupportWalpole, NHfor MyselfJan 14, 2026

I support this bill, because it is important for students to learn critical thinking skills in order to navigate their lives. We all need to learn this and probably refresher courses would be good for all of us!. Especially in a time when AI is easily used to present false information on social media, fabricate photos and videos and present as real news on social media. Thank you for using critical thinking as you vote on legislation!

Derek HuggerSupportMont Vernon, NHfor MyselfJan 14, 2026

With the rise of AI along with the increase of misleading/false news and questionable social media posts, teaching our youth what makes a valid argument and what makes a fallacious one is imperative to maintaining an educated society. I wholeheartedly support this bill.

Linda MuchemoreNeutralGreenland, NHfor MyselfJan 14, 2026

Requiring logic and critical thinking in high school is important for the students development. It would improve reasoning and decision making and teach how to evaluate arguments, social media, online sources and general news using research and facts. This would reduce susceptibility to misinformation and promote respectful disagreement and debate. However, schools are already underfunded and would struggle not only to pay for this added course, but find or train a teacher to teach it. There is a risk of politicization - all sides of an issue should be discussed which opens up another area for parents refusing to have their child be subjected to an opinion they don't agree with. This makes it more difficult for teachers to teach. Students really need education in critical thinking, but perhaps it should be included in subjects already taught that already should be analyzing such as history, social studies, civics, science, media literacy. Regardless which way it is taught, there must be developed criteria and course materials that focus on real world issues, social media, and online sources evaluation.

Marie StraitonSupportPembroke, NHfor MyselfJan 14, 2026

Logic and critical thinking courses should be available to all high school students.

Terry Ellen CarterSupportDover, NHfor MyselfJan 14, 2026

Logic and critical thinking will help students overcome the "single source" syndrome characterizing information gathering. All of us tend to find the news source or other source that reflects our own opinion; this applies to young students and adults. Helping students recognize the endless loop, and learn how to find their own conclusions, will help lead to better governance in future - when today's students will hold your seat in the NH House.

Andrew HornSupportAmherst, NHfor MyselfJan 14, 2026