New Hampshire House Poised to Vote on Lean Budget amid Revenue Concerns
CONCORD, NH — The New Hampshire House of Representatives is set to vote this week on a two-year budget that significantly diverges from Governor Kelly Ayotte’s original proposal, slashing intended spending due to disappointing business tax revenues.
House Bill 1 and House Bill 2, which have undergone extensive review, are scheduled for a vote on April 10 before moving to the state Senate. The finalized budget won’t be decided until June. The House Finance Committee, led by Chairman Ken Weyler, has identified a need for nearly $800 million in cuts from Ayotte’s budget to align it with lower revenue projections, anticipating a $149 million shortfall compared to the administration’s estimate of $81 million.
Democrats have decried the proposed budget, warning of detrimental impacts on the neediest residents, while Republicans argue that tough decisions are essential in light of economic challenges. To compensate for the revenue shortfall, the House has proposed a budget of $3.7 billion, down from Ayotte’s $3.9 billion.
Key reductions include cuts to state positions—many of which are currently vacant—with significant layoffs across various departments. The budget also seeks to eliminate several smaller agencies, notably the Office of the Child Advocate and the Human Rights Commission. Additionally, funding for higher education will see a $50 million reduction in the University System of New Hampshire, alongside cuts to community colleges.
The budget addresses education by expanding education freedom accounts and capping local school budget increases. Further austerity measures include cuts to Medicaid and family planning funding, alongside a planned repeal of the annual motor vehicle inspection requirement.
As budgeting unfolds, the House faces criticism and starkly divided opinions on the future of New Hampshire funding priorities.
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