Tensions Rise as New Hampshire Budget Deadline Approaches
As New Hampshire lawmakers gear up to vote on a new state budget this week, the rift between Governor Kelly Ayotte and State House Republicans deepens. With a looming June 30 deadline, Ayotte plans to request a special legislative session to address potential fallout should the budget fail to pass. This move follows Ayotte’s announcement of her intention to veto the GOP-backed plan, marking a contentious start to her first budget cycle.
At the heart of the discord is a heated debate over pension benefits for 1,500 police officers and firefighters affected by a 2011 law. Ayotte advocates for a significant increase in funding—over $27 million annually—to restore these benefits. However, the proposed budget from legislative negotiators only allocates about half that amount. Ayotte, who ran on a platform focused on supporting first responders, insists that any budget cutting these benefits is unacceptable, citing concerns that it could lead to attrition among law enforcement personnel.
Leading Republicans, including Senate President Sharon Carson, criticize Ayotte’s unwavering stance, claiming it neglects other pressing state needs. Carson remarked on the challenges posed by Ayotte’s refusal to negotiate, highlighting the necessity of finding common ground.
If the budget is not approved by the deadline, lawmakers may resort to a temporary spending plan. However, Ayotte argues that any stopgap measure should last no longer than 90 days. Carson expressed frustration over Ayotte’s unilateral decisions, indicating a lack of collaboration as she was not invited to a recent meeting hosted by the governor.
As the budget vote approaches, the future of police and firefighter pension benefits hangs in the balance, with both sides standing firm in their positions.
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