New Hampshire Budget Deal Reached Amid Party Tensions
CONCORD, N.H. — A last-minute compromise on Thursday enabled Governor Kelly A. Ayotte to sign a $15.9 billion two-year budget, averting her threatened veto of a previously finalized plan. The agreement, which passed by a narrow margin in the New Hampshire House, underscores a key victory for the first-term Republican governor amid intra-party discord.
Ayotte, who emphasized the need for a budget that reflects fiscal realities following a decline in revenues, stated that the final legislation aims to support vulnerable citizens, enhance public safety, and secure a better future for children in New Hampshire.
However, the budget faced unanimous opposition from Democratic lawmakers, largely due to controversial cuts including significant funding reductions for the University System of New Hampshire, the Department of Corrections, and new premiums for certain Medicaid beneficiaries. House Democratic minority leader Rep. Alexis Simpson condemned the budget, arguing it undermines health care for low-income families and public education, describing it as “catastrophic” for the state.
In contrast, Republican leaders praised the outcome, asserting it protects taxpayer interests and boosts local school funding. Majority Leader Jason Osborne highlighted that the budget reflects the priorities of New Hampshire families, while Deputy Majority Leader Joseph F. Sweeney emphasized its benefits for safety and education.
The road to reconciliation was fraught with difficulties, as initial votes on key budget bills prompted gasps from representatives, revealing deep divisions. A controversial tie-breaking vote by House Speaker Sherman A. Packard ultimately enabled the passage following intense negotiations.
Despite ongoing tensions and a potential special legislative session looming, Ayotte’s effort to address public safety retirement benefits, a sticking point in earlier discussions, paves the way for a budget aimed at benefitting all Granite Staters.
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