New Hampshire Senate Ready to Approve $15.7 Billion Budget
The New Hampshire Senate is set to pass a revised two-year budget of $15.7 billion, aimed at restoring Medicaid funding and addressing changes requested by Governor Kelly Ayotte. This budget, to be voted on by the Republican-led chamber, allocates approximately $200 million more than the House-approved plan from April.
Key modifications include reversing cuts to Medicaid reimbursement rates and funding for the developmentally disabled community. Additionally, proposed layoffs in the Department of Corrections have been scaled back, and funding for the Office of the Child Advocate and the Arts Council has been reinstated following their removal in the House’s budget.
Ayotte, who criticized the House for slashing $640 million from her initial proposal, emphasized the need for a budget that supports vulnerable citizens. The Senate’s plan includes over $52 million to restore a 3% rate cut to Medicaid providers and $37.8 million for mental health and developmental services. Furthermore, the spending blueprint allocates $85 million annually for the state University System, reversing cuts that had reduced higher education funding by over 30%.
Democrats in the Legislature have voiced concerns that the budget does not adequately prepare for potential federal funding changes. The two plans remain approximately $240 million apart, necessitating a compromise before the final version reaches Ayotte’s desk. Senate President Sharon Carson noted the need for cautious fiscal management following the cessation of temporary federal pandemic funds.
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