Thursday, June 14, 2012
STRANGE BEDFELLOWS
The 2012 New Hampshire Legislative Session is now history – all that’s left will be to meet on June 27th relative to any gubernatorial vetoes. As reported by numerous media outlets, last week’s session was contentious and extremely long, due in part, to a trifecta of proposed constitutional amendments that were on the docket.
The saying that politics makes strange bedfellows was certainly demonstrated last week as arch-conservative-libertarian members found themselves agreeing with liberal-progressive-democrats and free-thinking republicans. For totally different reasons, conservatives and liberals came together as a block to defeat a constitutional amendment for the November Ballot regarding education funding that would have overturned the Claremont lawsuit. Some on the right thought that CACR-12 would be as one representative described it “Claremont on Crack” meaning if passed the present situation would become worse and more costly to the State. On the left side of the spectrum, members felt the amendment would make the Supreme Court merely a procedural onlooker and unable to protect the rights of citizens. Having spent the past two years mistrusting the motives and decisions of these libertarian minded colleagues, I must admit it was somewhat unsettling to find myself in concurrence (albeit for different reasons) over CACR 12. However, we are sent to represent the people of our district – and since I didn’t believe CACR-12 was in Claremont’s best interest both financially and constitutionally I couldn’t support this amendment. Two separate votes on this legislation were taken, however the magic number of 237 never materialized and the opposition stood firm. One sad comment that was hopefully made by a representative in the heat of argument were negative statements regarding the honor and integrity of NH Supreme Court Justices, however as I stated it was a long and contentious day.
Another of the proposed constitutional amendments, CACR 6 that would have required a 3/5th vote of the legislature to impose any new or increased tax or fee also failed. An interesting argument was raised how the United States Senate is presently paralyzed by the 60% rule; therefore do we want to impose the same affect on New Hampshire. Thankfully this was also defeated, this time by moderate republicans and democrats. Actually, of the trifecta of proposed constitutional amendments, only CACR 13 prohibiting any new tax on personal income passed last week and will be on the November Ballot.
Unfortunately, the Session was so long that for the 2nd year in a row I was unable to attend the annual meeting of the Upper Valley Lake Sunapee Regional Planning Commission. This year the event was at the Common Man in Claremont which offered the historic Mill District as an attractive backdrop to an event that brings planners, municipal leaders and developers from around the region. Next year the Commission will be celebrating their 50th year of providing professional planning assistance to municipal boards. Their present array of expertise includes comprehensive planning, land use regulations, transportation planning, natural resource inventories, community/economic development, public participation, affordable housing, and hazard mitigation planning. As one of the 9 Regional Planning Commissions (RPC) in New Hampshire, their mission is to coordinate all aspects of planning, act as a liaison between local and state/federal governments and provide advisory technical assistance. They are an excellent example of intergovernmental collaboration and coordination. Kudos to the Upper Valley Planning Commission for all they do and choosing Claremont as the site of their annual meeting.
Another unsung governmental entity is the Statehouse Visitor Center in Concord. Under the excellent direction of Ms. Virginia Drew – this small department of New Hampshire government conducts tours and coordinates historical presentations and events that highlight NH and the Statehouse. This includes everything from workshops on NH history, as well as tours for students. Several years ago, the legislature mandated that all 4th graders would learn New Hampshire history which has now evolved into almost all of the elementary schools making a yearly trip to the statehouse and a tour by the Visitor Center is tops on their list. We often forget that our state capital is the oldest facility of its kind still in use as a seat of government. Therefore, it provides a marvelous living showcase of New Hampshire history and takes on an almost museum like quality that is visited yearly by thousands of tourists and NH residents. The statehouse and visitor center is also used by the US Department of State who regularly bring foreign government officials to New Hampshire as a way to better educate people from other cultures about the United States. For example, last week Ms. Drew was hostess to a group of young Algerian diplomats who were in NH for three days to observe US government in action. Their tour included visiting 3 states - New York, Wisconsin and New Hampshire. Representatives Schmidt (Grantham), Théberge (Berlin) and I had the opportunity to meet briefly with these visitors, during last week’s session. They appeared genuinely intrigued regarding how the state operates and thanks to the fine work of the Visitor Center; we might have had a small influence in Algeria’s future. Strange bedfellows indeed!
Monday, April 9, 2012
STAND YOUR GROUND – NH
I’ve been captivated for a month about stories coming from Florida regarding the killing of a 17 year old boy walking home after buying a bag of skittles. The victim appears to have been targeted because of his skin color and was killed by a man who, although asked by 911 to back-away, continued his pursuit of the “suspicious” young boy who was walking home and talking on a cell phone to his girlfriend.
I realize acts of violence occur daily and that bad things happen to good people, but what has me awestruck is how the shooter has been protected by a law called Stand-Your-Ground which Florida police cite as preventing them from arresting the killer. This law states that a person may use force in self-defense when there is reasonable belief of a threat, without an obligation to retreat first. Under these legal concepts, a person is justified in using deadly force in certain situations and the "Stand Your Ground" (SYG) law can be a defense or immunity to criminal charges and civil suit. The Florida Legislature passed this law that expands what’s called the Castle Doctrine (a person’s house is his castle, hence defense is defendable) including justifying deadly force. In researching Stand-Your-Ground deadly force is considered justified and a defense of justifiable homicide is applicable, specifically in cases "when the actor reasonably fears imminent peril of death or serious bodily harm to himself or another." Florida passed the Stand Your Ground law in 2005 and now 20 other states have similar laws – including New Hampshire.
The NH Stand-Your-Ground law took effect on Nov. 13, 2011 and simply ended the duty to retreat and lets anyone use deadly force to defend “anywhere he or she has a right to be.” The only exception to the NH law is if the person using the deadly force is the initial aggressor. This was passed over the Governor’s veto by the republican majority in the NH House, who you’ll remember as their first act after taking control was to permit concealed loaded weapons on the House Floor and Gallery. Our Attorney General Michael Delaney repeatedly cited the increase in violent crime in Florida since the law’s passage, and Claremont’s Police Chief Alexander Scott is quoted in an online publication (Lawofficer.com) that while NH hasn’t yet encountered a similar scenario where the stand-your-ground law played a direct role, "it's only a matter of time." He further stated how the “New Hampshire Association of Chiefs of Police lobbied very strongly against the law last year, arguing that Florida had seen an increase in violent confrontations since its law went into effect.” Furthermore, how NH law enforcement fears the same increase will occur here and this will result in an escalation of violence. Scott further speculated about why the NRA spent so much time and money lobbying for Stand Your Ground stating that “things were working before because the overall crime rate had been dropping, and stating he wasn’t sure why they would want to change that trend.” My concern is when did NH become so scared that shooting first & asking questions later would become the law of the land?
POLITICAL BUZZ:
Concord was buzzing last week about the decision by some senators to re-draw the map for the Executive Council. Locally, that means that Executive Counselor – Raymond Burton – will no longer represent Claremonters and much of the Upper Valley. I can’t remember when Ray Burton wasn’t our executive counselor and his services to residents of the area will certainly be missed if this plan goes into effect. The Executive Council is elected every two years and is a remnant of colonial days having begun in 1679, to ensure a check on the governor.
According to rumors, the decision to redraw the Executive Council is because Executive Counselor David Wheeler’s District-5 election is in jeopardy. Originally, Counselor Burton’s district was to remain basically the same; however the new plan has his region spiking to the southeast and including much of Strafford County and the heavily democratic cities of Rochester, Dover, and Somersworth. Capital gossip is this will make it difficult for Executive Counselor Daniel Saint-Hilaire to keep his seat as it will now include the communities of Concord, Hanover, Lebanon and Claremont. Also, since Raymond Burton isn’t well known in eastern NH, he may be vulnerable because of adding heavily democratic Strafford County to his district.
More gossip abounded regarding the new Connecticut Valley Senate Seat. Claremont and Charlestown will now join Hanover and Lebanon as part of Senate District-5 from Charlestown to Lyme. Two democrats have publically expressed an interest in running so a September Primary is expected. The two democrat candidates are Brian Rapp – a Claremont Firefighter and member of the Claremont School Board, and David Pierce – a Hanover Lawyer and State Representative. Both are well known in their respective areas, although Representative Pierce’s population base is larger, the challenge is who can raise the 70 thousand dollars minimum needed to win a senate seat today. Needless to say, political pundits are in full spin mode.
I realize acts of violence occur daily and that bad things happen to good people, but what has me awestruck is how the shooter has been protected by a law called Stand-Your-Ground which Florida police cite as preventing them from arresting the killer. This law states that a person may use force in self-defense when there is reasonable belief of a threat, without an obligation to retreat first. Under these legal concepts, a person is justified in using deadly force in certain situations and the "Stand Your Ground" (SYG) law can be a defense or immunity to criminal charges and civil suit. The Florida Legislature passed this law that expands what’s called the Castle Doctrine (a person’s house is his castle, hence defense is defendable) including justifying deadly force. In researching Stand-Your-Ground deadly force is considered justified and a defense of justifiable homicide is applicable, specifically in cases "when the actor reasonably fears imminent peril of death or serious bodily harm to himself or another." Florida passed the Stand Your Ground law in 2005 and now 20 other states have similar laws – including New Hampshire.
The NH Stand-Your-Ground law took effect on Nov. 13, 2011 and simply ended the duty to retreat and lets anyone use deadly force to defend “anywhere he or she has a right to be.” The only exception to the NH law is if the person using the deadly force is the initial aggressor. This was passed over the Governor’s veto by the republican majority in the NH House, who you’ll remember as their first act after taking control was to permit concealed loaded weapons on the House Floor and Gallery. Our Attorney General Michael Delaney repeatedly cited the increase in violent crime in Florida since the law’s passage, and Claremont’s Police Chief Alexander Scott is quoted in an online publication (Lawofficer.com) that while NH hasn’t yet encountered a similar scenario where the stand-your-ground law played a direct role, "it's only a matter of time." He further stated how the “New Hampshire Association of Chiefs of Police lobbied very strongly against the law last year, arguing that Florida had seen an increase in violent confrontations since its law went into effect.” Furthermore, how NH law enforcement fears the same increase will occur here and this will result in an escalation of violence. Scott further speculated about why the NRA spent so much time and money lobbying for Stand Your Ground stating that “things were working before because the overall crime rate had been dropping, and stating he wasn’t sure why they would want to change that trend.” My concern is when did NH become so scared that shooting first & asking questions later would become the law of the land?
POLITICAL BUZZ:
Concord was buzzing last week about the decision by some senators to re-draw the map for the Executive Council. Locally, that means that Executive Counselor – Raymond Burton – will no longer represent Claremonters and much of the Upper Valley. I can’t remember when Ray Burton wasn’t our executive counselor and his services to residents of the area will certainly be missed if this plan goes into effect. The Executive Council is elected every two years and is a remnant of colonial days having begun in 1679, to ensure a check on the governor.
According to rumors, the decision to redraw the Executive Council is because Executive Counselor David Wheeler’s District-5 election is in jeopardy. Originally, Counselor Burton’s district was to remain basically the same; however the new plan has his region spiking to the southeast and including much of Strafford County and the heavily democratic cities of Rochester, Dover, and Somersworth. Capital gossip is this will make it difficult for Executive Counselor Daniel Saint-Hilaire to keep his seat as it will now include the communities of Concord, Hanover, Lebanon and Claremont. Also, since Raymond Burton isn’t well known in eastern NH, he may be vulnerable because of adding heavily democratic Strafford County to his district.
More gossip abounded regarding the new Connecticut Valley Senate Seat. Claremont and Charlestown will now join Hanover and Lebanon as part of Senate District-5 from Charlestown to Lyme. Two democrats have publically expressed an interest in running so a September Primary is expected. The two democrat candidates are Brian Rapp – a Claremont Firefighter and member of the Claremont School Board, and David Pierce – a Hanover Lawyer and State Representative. Both are well known in their respective areas, although Representative Pierce’s population base is larger, the challenge is who can raise the 70 thousand dollars minimum needed to win a senate seat today. Needless to say, political pundits are in full spin mode.
Saturday, March 17, 2012
WHO KNEW!
WHO KNEW!
A couple of weeks ago, I wrote a tongue in cheek piece about unwanted advice and suggested the GOP nominate Senator Santorum for president. My contention was since he’s extremely conservative and has views similar to those presently controlling the Republican Party; his selection would end in defeat and break the stranglehold cultural conservatives now have on the Grand Old Party of Lincoln. Who knew that the senator would proceed to next win big in Kansas, Alabama and Mississippi! However, before I begin to proclaim myself as the ultimate in political punditry – perhaps I should step back, take a deep breath, and focus on matters closer to home. While it certainly is spellbinding to watch this national attack on women (contraceptives), minorities (election laws) and government in general – there are plenty of local attacks on hospitals, women, education, public safety, the judiciary and working families by NH extremists to keep me occupied. Yes – I’m talking about another big week in the NH Legislature!
HOSPITALS
The week started with a repeal of the certificate of need law which many feel is part of a strategy to bring to NH a For-Profit Specialty Hospital that will only make it harder for NH Hospitals like the Elliot, CMC, and Hitchcock to operate. Sadly, my understanding was that it had been defeated, however the amendment to keep the certificate of need was defeated and on voice vote the Certificate of Need was eliminated
WOMEN:
Not to be upstaged by their colleagues on the national stage – New Hampshire’s culture warriors conducted their own assault on women. I tweeted during the (3/14) session the following “today's #nhhouse session was straight out of a Doonesbury cartoon - minus the humor!” I don’t get it - the use of contraceptives is a successful tool against unwanted pregnancies and abortion, so do we really want to re-fight the culture wars of the 1970’s?
ANTI-JUDICIARY:
I believe there’s never been a NH House more distrusting of the court system than this crowd presently in power. On a weekly basis, the implication is that judges & the courts are out to “get us”! Last week was no different – these extremists failed in an attempt to amend the Constitution for the legislature to have oversight over all court rules. Apparently, they were absent when the concept of separation of powers was discussed in school!
However, not to be disheartened – they next attempted a constitutional amendment that would repeal the Chief Justice’s ability to make rules governing the administration of the courts. While both of these constitutional amendments received a majority of NH representatives in support, they didn’t get the super majority needed for passage, so NH’s Constitution survives for another day!
WORKERS & MIDDLE CLASS FAMILIES:
Workers and families took it on the chin last week with the passage of the right to work for less bill. The House also passed a bill prohibiting public employees from participating in collective bargaining. Thankfully, the legislation to impact lunch breaks was defeated, but workforce housing took a serious hit with the passage of HB-1282 (156/133) that allows communities to opt out of the program. Many confuse workforce housing with subsidize housing, but the two are completely different. Workforce Housing permits affordable housing to be built for young families to live in the communities they work thus fostering towns with a diversity of income levels.
SOMETHING POSITIVE:
On the positive side was the yearly St. Patrick’s Day luncheon & fundraiser for the Children’s Hospital at Dartmouth (CHAD). This yearly event, sponsored by the Demers Group, raises money and attention about the needs of children and the excellent work provided by the medical staff at CHAD. It’s an occasion where the House and Senate, as well as the Governor come together for a common good. A young 11 year old girl named Josee who described herself as “being a CHAD kid all her life” stole everyone’s heart away with a rendition of “Irish Eyes Are Smiling.” Unlike past years where the event took on more of a roast – this year the jokes were provided by a NH comedian Juston McKinney who recently performed at the Claremont Opera House. Mr. McKinney is a funny fellow and provided an opportunity for us to laugh at ourselves and for a brief moment – everyone actually got along! Something else positive last week was the passage of the 10 year Transportation Plan – which will improve NH’s bridges and highways.
Something that became very clear this week was although there’s a majority of self-righteous extremists who regularly attempt to overturn 20 - 0 committee recommendations on the House floor – the problem is also a lack of skill and pushback by leadership. Many committee chairs are either not articulate, knowledgeable or forceful enough to explain their position. For example: there was a piece of legislation regarding Manchester and the Elliot Hospital. The City feels the hospital should be taxed while the hospital says it’s a non-profit which resulted in a disjointed debate where everyone became lost. Up rose the chairperson of Municipal Government – an experienced GOP representative known for being substantive and one not to suffer fools lightly. She explained the history of the problem – cited the mistakes made by all entities involved – cleared away the half truths and confusion and won the debate 243-65. It just goes to show what a grown-up and leadership can do!
A couple of weeks ago, I wrote a tongue in cheek piece about unwanted advice and suggested the GOP nominate Senator Santorum for president. My contention was since he’s extremely conservative and has views similar to those presently controlling the Republican Party; his selection would end in defeat and break the stranglehold cultural conservatives now have on the Grand Old Party of Lincoln. Who knew that the senator would proceed to next win big in Kansas, Alabama and Mississippi! However, before I begin to proclaim myself as the ultimate in political punditry – perhaps I should step back, take a deep breath, and focus on matters closer to home. While it certainly is spellbinding to watch this national attack on women (contraceptives), minorities (election laws) and government in general – there are plenty of local attacks on hospitals, women, education, public safety, the judiciary and working families by NH extremists to keep me occupied. Yes – I’m talking about another big week in the NH Legislature!
HOSPITALS
The week started with a repeal of the certificate of need law which many feel is part of a strategy to bring to NH a For-Profit Specialty Hospital that will only make it harder for NH Hospitals like the Elliot, CMC, and Hitchcock to operate. Sadly, my understanding was that it had been defeated, however the amendment to keep the certificate of need was defeated and on voice vote the Certificate of Need was eliminated
WOMEN:
Not to be upstaged by their colleagues on the national stage – New Hampshire’s culture warriors conducted their own assault on women. I tweeted during the (3/14) session the following “today's #nhhouse session was straight out of a Doonesbury cartoon - minus the humor!” I don’t get it - the use of contraceptives is a successful tool against unwanted pregnancies and abortion, so do we really want to re-fight the culture wars of the 1970’s?
ANTI-JUDICIARY:
I believe there’s never been a NH House more distrusting of the court system than this crowd presently in power. On a weekly basis, the implication is that judges & the courts are out to “get us”! Last week was no different – these extremists failed in an attempt to amend the Constitution for the legislature to have oversight over all court rules. Apparently, they were absent when the concept of separation of powers was discussed in school!
However, not to be disheartened – they next attempted a constitutional amendment that would repeal the Chief Justice’s ability to make rules governing the administration of the courts. While both of these constitutional amendments received a majority of NH representatives in support, they didn’t get the super majority needed for passage, so NH’s Constitution survives for another day!
WORKERS & MIDDLE CLASS FAMILIES:
Workers and families took it on the chin last week with the passage of the right to work for less bill. The House also passed a bill prohibiting public employees from participating in collective bargaining. Thankfully, the legislation to impact lunch breaks was defeated, but workforce housing took a serious hit with the passage of HB-1282 (156/133) that allows communities to opt out of the program. Many confuse workforce housing with subsidize housing, but the two are completely different. Workforce Housing permits affordable housing to be built for young families to live in the communities they work thus fostering towns with a diversity of income levels.
SOMETHING POSITIVE:
On the positive side was the yearly St. Patrick’s Day luncheon & fundraiser for the Children’s Hospital at Dartmouth (CHAD). This yearly event, sponsored by the Demers Group, raises money and attention about the needs of children and the excellent work provided by the medical staff at CHAD. It’s an occasion where the House and Senate, as well as the Governor come together for a common good. A young 11 year old girl named Josee who described herself as “being a CHAD kid all her life” stole everyone’s heart away with a rendition of “Irish Eyes Are Smiling.” Unlike past years where the event took on more of a roast – this year the jokes were provided by a NH comedian Juston McKinney who recently performed at the Claremont Opera House. Mr. McKinney is a funny fellow and provided an opportunity for us to laugh at ourselves and for a brief moment – everyone actually got along! Something else positive last week was the passage of the 10 year Transportation Plan – which will improve NH’s bridges and highways.
Something that became very clear this week was although there’s a majority of self-righteous extremists who regularly attempt to overturn 20 - 0 committee recommendations on the House floor – the problem is also a lack of skill and pushback by leadership. Many committee chairs are either not articulate, knowledgeable or forceful enough to explain their position. For example: there was a piece of legislation regarding Manchester and the Elliot Hospital. The City feels the hospital should be taxed while the hospital says it’s a non-profit which resulted in a disjointed debate where everyone became lost. Up rose the chairperson of Municipal Government – an experienced GOP representative known for being substantive and one not to suffer fools lightly. She explained the history of the problem – cited the mistakes made by all entities involved – cleared away the half truths and confusion and won the debate 243-65. It just goes to show what a grown-up and leadership can do!
Saturday, February 18, 2012
MAKE A FUSS
Politics is the process where groups of people make collective decisions relative to running government. So I am here to report that it has been an active week politically in New Hampshire.
HOUSE HAPPENINGS:
The legislature is attempting to get through the thousands of proposed pieces of legislation causing many to ask “who knew we needed so many new laws.” It’s slowly dawning on members that the thousands of bills submitted in January need to be assigned a committee, have a hearing, and then voted on by the full House and that this takes time. Furthermore, all this has to happen prior to March 29 – Crossover Day, which is one of those interesting built-in checks on the system requiring that bills from the House and Senate need to be acted upon and sent to the other body. Needless to say, reality is setting-in relative to schedules and there not being enough time in the day. At last Wednesday’s Session, Speaker O’Brien fearing an exodus of representatives late in the day and the subsequent loss of a quorum had the exit doors locked and stationed security, including state police, at the exits of Representatives Hall to ensure that no reps went AWOL. Among the more interesting side bars of the day was debate over HB-1666, referred to by a democratic representative as the “Devil’s Bill” which would require the legislature to approve all collective bargaining agreements entered into by the state. It was pointed out that this amended bill has never had a public hearing which caused the House Finance Chairman to immediately jump up and state that a hearing would just bring in “people who want to make a fuss!” Many readers may recall that the Finance Chair is Representative Weyler who came to Claremont earlier this year to explain the downshifting of state costs onto the city. He is the same guy who called firefighters “thugs” during the budget hearings. Sadly, the mindset of not holding hearings about something people might not like, so let’s not tell them prevailed and HB-1666, aka the DEVIL’S BILL passed 232 to 119! However, the latest legislative outrage is a bill by a libertarian-republican legislator which if passed would no longer require businesses to offer a lunch break for workers.
COUNTY BIOMASS:
On a less confrontational front – the Sullivan County Delegation held a meeting last Thursday that included a presentation and public hearing on a proposal by the County Commissioners to build a Biomass Energy Project at the county complex in Unity. The project will require the County to bond 3.2 million dollars for construction of the facility; however the project is estimated to save the County two hundred and ninety thousand dollars yearly in fuel costs. This energy saving project will utilize and burn wood chips provided by regional businesses. Estimated time to construct and become operational is about 18 months. In addition to savings in fuel costs, the project was touted as providing a variety of social and environmental benefits such as reducing our reliance on foreign fossil fuels, as well as a net reduction of carbon emissions by 1,200 tonnes per year. Additional benefits were how projected energy dollars of $80,000 per year would remain local as well as provide an opportunity to better manage county owned forests. The proposal was unanimously endorsed by delegation members.
COMMUNITY COLLEGES CREATE JOBS:
The week rounded out with my attending an excellent presentation by President Budd and staff of River Valley Community College. The new Chancellor of the Community College System – Dr. Ross Gittell – also participated in the morning meeting. It was very evident that River Valley Community College is no longer the Voc-Tech of years gone by. Due to a variety of partnerships and collaborations, they are quickly exceeding all expectations. Not only are they continuing to work with area businesses such as Hypertherm regarding turning out qualified machinists, but they have developed articulation agreements with Keene State College where graduates of the machinist program will be credited for two years towards a bachelor’s degree. Apparently due to rising tuition costs many area students are attending the community college to complete their first two years of schooling before transferring to the university system. River Valley is also working with the Dartmouth School of Medicine in producing workers for the health fields of tomorrow and successfully providing the occupation careers of the future. Another partnership with Dartmouth’s Center for Strategic Studies has resulted in River Valley being awarded a three year federal grant resulting in students receiving an associate’s degree in information-security, which will provide high paying jobs for workers in the field of cyber-security. Concern was expressed about decreasing support from the legislature and the subsequent impact which caused me to think just imagine what they could do if the NH legislature actually funded them at a functional level? New Hampshire’s Community Colleges are indeed the best kept secret in the state, as they are flexible and capable of responding to student and business needs. Kudos to River Valley for providing a place of second chances for area residents!
HOUSE HAPPENINGS:
The legislature is attempting to get through the thousands of proposed pieces of legislation causing many to ask “who knew we needed so many new laws.” It’s slowly dawning on members that the thousands of bills submitted in January need to be assigned a committee, have a hearing, and then voted on by the full House and that this takes time. Furthermore, all this has to happen prior to March 29 – Crossover Day, which is one of those interesting built-in checks on the system requiring that bills from the House and Senate need to be acted upon and sent to the other body. Needless to say, reality is setting-in relative to schedules and there not being enough time in the day. At last Wednesday’s Session, Speaker O’Brien fearing an exodus of representatives late in the day and the subsequent loss of a quorum had the exit doors locked and stationed security, including state police, at the exits of Representatives Hall to ensure that no reps went AWOL. Among the more interesting side bars of the day was debate over HB-1666, referred to by a democratic representative as the “Devil’s Bill” which would require the legislature to approve all collective bargaining agreements entered into by the state. It was pointed out that this amended bill has never had a public hearing which caused the House Finance Chairman to immediately jump up and state that a hearing would just bring in “people who want to make a fuss!” Many readers may recall that the Finance Chair is Representative Weyler who came to Claremont earlier this year to explain the downshifting of state costs onto the city. He is the same guy who called firefighters “thugs” during the budget hearings. Sadly, the mindset of not holding hearings about something people might not like, so let’s not tell them prevailed and HB-1666, aka the DEVIL’S BILL passed 232 to 119! However, the latest legislative outrage is a bill by a libertarian-republican legislator which if passed would no longer require businesses to offer a lunch break for workers.
COUNTY BIOMASS:
On a less confrontational front – the Sullivan County Delegation held a meeting last Thursday that included a presentation and public hearing on a proposal by the County Commissioners to build a Biomass Energy Project at the county complex in Unity. The project will require the County to bond 3.2 million dollars for construction of the facility; however the project is estimated to save the County two hundred and ninety thousand dollars yearly in fuel costs. This energy saving project will utilize and burn wood chips provided by regional businesses. Estimated time to construct and become operational is about 18 months. In addition to savings in fuel costs, the project was touted as providing a variety of social and environmental benefits such as reducing our reliance on foreign fossil fuels, as well as a net reduction of carbon emissions by 1,200 tonnes per year. Additional benefits were how projected energy dollars of $80,000 per year would remain local as well as provide an opportunity to better manage county owned forests. The proposal was unanimously endorsed by delegation members.
COMMUNITY COLLEGES CREATE JOBS:
The week rounded out with my attending an excellent presentation by President Budd and staff of River Valley Community College. The new Chancellor of the Community College System – Dr. Ross Gittell – also participated in the morning meeting. It was very evident that River Valley Community College is no longer the Voc-Tech of years gone by. Due to a variety of partnerships and collaborations, they are quickly exceeding all expectations. Not only are they continuing to work with area businesses such as Hypertherm regarding turning out qualified machinists, but they have developed articulation agreements with Keene State College where graduates of the machinist program will be credited for two years towards a bachelor’s degree. Apparently due to rising tuition costs many area students are attending the community college to complete their first two years of schooling before transferring to the university system. River Valley is also working with the Dartmouth School of Medicine in producing workers for the health fields of tomorrow and successfully providing the occupation careers of the future. Another partnership with Dartmouth’s Center for Strategic Studies has resulted in River Valley being awarded a three year federal grant resulting in students receiving an associate’s degree in information-security, which will provide high paying jobs for workers in the field of cyber-security. Concern was expressed about decreasing support from the legislature and the subsequent impact which caused me to think just imagine what they could do if the NH legislature actually funded them at a functional level? New Hampshire’s Community Colleges are indeed the best kept secret in the state, as they are flexible and capable of responding to student and business needs. Kudos to River Valley for providing a place of second chances for area residents!
Sunday, February 5, 2012
HARSHNESS IN THE AIR
Last Tuesday - Governor John Lynch gave his State of the State speech with the opening that “IT IS MY GREAT HONOR TO REPORT to the people of New Hampshire, for the fourth and final time on the state of our great state.” First elected in November 2004 and having been re-elected to a historic fourth term in 2010, Governor Lynch is the longest serving New Hampshire governor in nearly two hundred years. His record as New Hampshire’s chief executive is surpassed only by John Taylor Gilman who served as governor for 14 one year terms from 1794-1805 and again from 1813-1816.
The State of the State is an opportunity to showcase and highlight many of the wonderful aspects of New Hampshire, as well as focus substantively on where we are going and how we are going to get there. Not only is the General Court (House and Senate) in attendance, but the NH Supreme Court, Agency Commissioners & Directors as well as an assortment of noteworthy residents and supporters normally pack Representatives Hall. The Dartmouth Aires, a choral group from Dartmouth College –sang the national anthem as well as entertained those assembled with an amazing performance. This year, Governor Lynch made special reference to the 58 NH residents who died defending their state and nation over the past ten years in Iraq and Afghanistan. He also introduced a person from the NH Food Bank that provided over 7 million pounds of food to needy neighbors last year. He also introduced two Department of Transportation employees who accomplished the yeoman task of repairing the Kancamagus Highway after Hurricane Irene. This was, I later learned from DOT, a herculean task accomplished in 15 days by a few state workers which resulted in the Kanc being re-opened and ready for tourists at the height of the season.
Substantively, Governor Lynch didn’t miss the mark and reiterated how the statehouse is a place for people to make a difference, and urged us “to adopt the cardinal rule of medicine: First do no harm. We can build on our success, but overall New Hampshire has a strategy that is working. Let’s not mess it up…” Not messing things up was a key theme this year! Although NH has the fourth lowest unemployment rate in the Nation, “our first priority remains putting people back to work” – and keeping a strategy that works. Having an educated, accomplished workforce is vital to growth and economic development; therefore, he took the legislature to task for reducing revenues from the tobacco tax that cost us 13 million dollars. He pointed out how the 10-cent cut in the tobacco tax has wiped out much of the gains in the business tax revenues and urged us to recognize our error, contending that they could have been used to offset the 48% cut to the University System. The governor made the case how not only has this hurt NH students and families but has negatively impacted business trying to grow in NH and sent the wrong signal to the companies they are trying to attract.
Not pulling any punches, the governor articulated how the “current budget dramatically reduced uncompensated care payments to hospitals. As a result, hospitals have been challenging current and past Medicaid Enhancement Tax payments.” He was clear that the House & Senate must consider how “to repair this fractured relationship with our major health care providers.” While I don’t always agree with the Governor regarding tax policy, it was refreshing to hear that “there are tax reductions that can spur job growth here in New Hampshire.” Stressing how the research and development tax credit was established “to attract companies to create the products of the future”, he proposes we double the research & development tax credit this year. I especially liked his bluntness regarding how “this is a tax credit that works to help create jobs; the same cannot be said for the cut in the tobacco tax.”
Lastly, Governor Lynch didn’t shy away from addressing the destructive extremist antics that have become common place in the legislature. I especially appreciated it when he said “we hear from some a lot of anti-government talk – but that doesn’t make sense. Government after all, is all of us, the people of New Hampshire and it exists to serve all of us... Our focus shouldn’t be on attacking government. It should be on improving government.” He then proceeded to praise state employees, teachers, firefighters and police officers and how they are not the enemy! He expressed concern over the “rash of proposed legislation” relative to guns and public safety and clearly stated “these bills are wrong for public safety and they are wrong for New Hampshire.”
Governor Lynch ended his final State of the State maintaining there is>“harshness in the air, in the tone and nature of communication, and particularly within this building, that’s not healthy for our people or our democracy.” It may have been his final State of the State but last Tuesday was John Lynch’s finest hour where he stood tall for you and me – the people!
The State of the State is an opportunity to showcase and highlight many of the wonderful aspects of New Hampshire, as well as focus substantively on where we are going and how we are going to get there. Not only is the General Court (House and Senate) in attendance, but the NH Supreme Court, Agency Commissioners & Directors as well as an assortment of noteworthy residents and supporters normally pack Representatives Hall. The Dartmouth Aires, a choral group from Dartmouth College –sang the national anthem as well as entertained those assembled with an amazing performance. This year, Governor Lynch made special reference to the 58 NH residents who died defending their state and nation over the past ten years in Iraq and Afghanistan. He also introduced a person from the NH Food Bank that provided over 7 million pounds of food to needy neighbors last year. He also introduced two Department of Transportation employees who accomplished the yeoman task of repairing the Kancamagus Highway after Hurricane Irene. This was, I later learned from DOT, a herculean task accomplished in 15 days by a few state workers which resulted in the Kanc being re-opened and ready for tourists at the height of the season.
Substantively, Governor Lynch didn’t miss the mark and reiterated how the statehouse is a place for people to make a difference, and urged us “to adopt the cardinal rule of medicine: First do no harm. We can build on our success, but overall New Hampshire has a strategy that is working. Let’s not mess it up…” Not messing things up was a key theme this year! Although NH has the fourth lowest unemployment rate in the Nation, “our first priority remains putting people back to work” – and keeping a strategy that works. Having an educated, accomplished workforce is vital to growth and economic development; therefore, he took the legislature to task for reducing revenues from the tobacco tax that cost us 13 million dollars. He pointed out how the 10-cent cut in the tobacco tax has wiped out much of the gains in the business tax revenues and urged us to recognize our error, contending that they could have been used to offset the 48% cut to the University System. The governor made the case how not only has this hurt NH students and families but has negatively impacted business trying to grow in NH and sent the wrong signal to the companies they are trying to attract.
Not pulling any punches, the governor articulated how the “current budget dramatically reduced uncompensated care payments to hospitals. As a result, hospitals have been challenging current and past Medicaid Enhancement Tax payments.” He was clear that the House & Senate must consider how “to repair this fractured relationship with our major health care providers.” While I don’t always agree with the Governor regarding tax policy, it was refreshing to hear that “there are tax reductions that can spur job growth here in New Hampshire.” Stressing how the research and development tax credit was established “to attract companies to create the products of the future”, he proposes we double the research & development tax credit this year. I especially liked his bluntness regarding how “this is a tax credit that works to help create jobs; the same cannot be said for the cut in the tobacco tax.”
Lastly, Governor Lynch didn’t shy away from addressing the destructive extremist antics that have become common place in the legislature. I especially appreciated it when he said “we hear from some a lot of anti-government talk – but that doesn’t make sense. Government after all, is all of us, the people of New Hampshire and it exists to serve all of us... Our focus shouldn’t be on attacking government. It should be on improving government.” He then proceeded to praise state employees, teachers, firefighters and police officers and how they are not the enemy! He expressed concern over the “rash of proposed legislation” relative to guns and public safety and clearly stated “these bills are wrong for public safety and they are wrong for New Hampshire.”
Governor Lynch ended his final State of the State maintaining there is
Monday, December 26, 2011
YOU CAN’T MAKE THIS UP!
Hold on – It’s going to be a bumpy ride is a famous line from an old movie and as I start to review legislation being proposed for the upcoming 2012 House Session, the line applies quite nicely. Earlier this year legislators filed bills for the upcoming January session, and after careful crafting and re-writes by the Office of Legislative Services to ensure it addresses the sponsor’s intent, they are distributed to members as well as put on-line. The public can review the proposed legislation by going to the NH House website http://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/house/default.htm
Amid the bills being proposed by this republican legislature are the following samples of the strange, ridiculous and absurd! Bills that meddle with International Affairs, a fear of the Federal Government, abolishing art & culture and of course their seemingly favorite topic – GUNS – lots of bills regarding guns!
If they’re successful – the United States will not only withdraw from the United Nations (HCR-32) and the North American Free Trade Agreement (HCR-34), but also privatize Social Security (HCR-39), as well as inform the US Congress that the NH National Guard shall not serve outside the borders of New Hampshire absent a declaration of war (HCR-21). I believe there’s another bill to form a NH Defense Force who I guess will protect us from those suspicious knaves to the north - the Canadians. Apparently, the Canadians are a serious concern & potential threat as we’re proposing removing Canada from the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (HB-1248-FN). Note (FN) signifies there is a fiscal cost to the legislation and ultimately the taxpayer. Sadly they have forgotten, or are unaware, how a decade ago when a couple of NH state troopers were killed by a gun toting extremist, it was the Canadian border cops who were among the first on the scene, or how often Hydro-Quebec has sent teams here to work with NH utilities in restoring power. Sometimes a short memory can be dangerous thing! But, it’s not just the Canadians we’re worried about, there’s also legislation (HB-1412) that requires the Department of Transportation to post signs on roads that cross the border with Massachusetts, apparently Maine & Vermont are still OK (for now). Maybe we can use that proposed Defense Force they’re talking about forming to staff border crossings into Massachusetts – “papers, papers ver are your papers!”
Last session these legislative extremists pretty much emasculated the NH Department of Cultural Resources, but just to make sure, they now want to repeal the State Art Fund (HB1285-FN) whose job it is to administer any federal funds received from the National Endowment of the Arts for the State. Now since these are the same people who want New Hampshire to refuse accepting all federal funds there probably is some odd logic here. Of course – for those who prefer the full frontal (why use a scalpel when an axe will do) approach – there is HB-1274-FN that calls for abolishing the department of Cultural Resources completely. Still, let’s not forget HB-1145 that prohibits Public Television (Channel 11) from being affiliated with the University System of NH.
There are several bills dealing with restricting government and deregulation that if passed may limit the abilities of municipalities and school districts. Specifically, HB-1167 which if passed will eliminate the requirement that public school education be provided for a minimum of 180 days [yeah! kids should go to school for fewer days per year – that’ll make us more competitive in the global marketplace!] There are also bills addressing the licensure of hawkers & peddlers (HB-1359) as well as workforce housing (HB1282-FN). House Bill-1265 establishes criteria for the regulation of occupations & professions and provides that an individual may engage in a legal occupation without being subject to laws that regulate the occupation or profession which are arbitrary, unnecessary, or substantially burdensome.
Then there’s HB-1131 which calls for a committee to study what the impact would be if we abolished both the Supreme & Superior Courts! Also, some want to mandate that the Governor will need the approval of the executive council and general court (yes all 424 members) before seeking federal aid for emergency assistance (HB-1218). Any legislator even considering this – should take a ride along Rte 4 from White River Junction to Rutland Vermont. Even now in December ’11 the damage from Hurricane Irene is visible – so does it make sense to slow down the process?
Several legislators have filed a bill (HB-1126) requiring the NH General Court to nominate candidates for US Senator. Also, in response to the ongoing hysteria that’s jammed NH legislators email boxes for months from out of staters, regarding how we’ve elected as President someone who isn’t a US citizen, HB-1164 comes to the rescue and requires presidential candidates to submit documentation that they meet the qualifications for office as stated in the US Constitution.
Last but not least are the GUN Bills: HB-1375 allows persons convicted of nonviolent felonies to purchase and keep firearms; HB 1246 permits residents to apply to the director of the State Police or county sheriff for a license to carry a pistol or revolver, thus going around local police. HB-1341 repeals the statute prohibiting unauthorized use of a firearm in the compact of a city or town, and HB 1335 limits Fish & Game’s ability to deny a hunting license only if the person is prohibited under federal or state law from possessing a firearm. However, there’s more, HB-1318 will permit anyone to carry a loaded firearm openly or concealed, on their person or in a vehicle, and HB-1220 repeals the criminal history record and protective order check for the sale of firearms.
This is just a sampling – there’s more to come – but as an old statehouse reporter said last week when asked about this NH House – YOU CAN’T MAKE THIS UP! So stay tuned.
Amid the bills being proposed by this republican legislature are the following samples of the strange, ridiculous and absurd! Bills that meddle with International Affairs, a fear of the Federal Government, abolishing art & culture and of course their seemingly favorite topic – GUNS – lots of bills regarding guns!
If they’re successful – the United States will not only withdraw from the United Nations (HCR-32) and the North American Free Trade Agreement (HCR-34), but also privatize Social Security (HCR-39), as well as inform the US Congress that the NH National Guard shall not serve outside the borders of New Hampshire absent a declaration of war (HCR-21). I believe there’s another bill to form a NH Defense Force who I guess will protect us from those suspicious knaves to the north - the Canadians. Apparently, the Canadians are a serious concern & potential threat as we’re proposing removing Canada from the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (HB-1248-FN). Note (FN) signifies there is a fiscal cost to the legislation and ultimately the taxpayer. Sadly they have forgotten, or are unaware, how a decade ago when a couple of NH state troopers were killed by a gun toting extremist, it was the Canadian border cops who were among the first on the scene, or how often Hydro-Quebec has sent teams here to work with NH utilities in restoring power. Sometimes a short memory can be dangerous thing! But, it’s not just the Canadians we’re worried about, there’s also legislation (HB-1412) that requires the Department of Transportation to post signs on roads that cross the border with Massachusetts, apparently Maine & Vermont are still OK (for now). Maybe we can use that proposed Defense Force they’re talking about forming to staff border crossings into Massachusetts – “papers, papers ver are your papers!”
Last session these legislative extremists pretty much emasculated the NH Department of Cultural Resources, but just to make sure, they now want to repeal the State Art Fund (HB1285-FN) whose job it is to administer any federal funds received from the National Endowment of the Arts for the State. Now since these are the same people who want New Hampshire to refuse accepting all federal funds there probably is some odd logic here. Of course – for those who prefer the full frontal (why use a scalpel when an axe will do) approach – there is HB-1274-FN that calls for abolishing the department of Cultural Resources completely. Still, let’s not forget HB-1145 that prohibits Public Television (Channel 11) from being affiliated with the University System of NH.
There are several bills dealing with restricting government and deregulation that if passed may limit the abilities of municipalities and school districts. Specifically, HB-1167 which if passed will eliminate the requirement that public school education be provided for a minimum of 180 days [yeah! kids should go to school for fewer days per year – that’ll make us more competitive in the global marketplace!] There are also bills addressing the licensure of hawkers & peddlers (HB-1359) as well as workforce housing (HB1282-FN). House Bill-1265 establishes criteria for the regulation of occupations & professions and provides that an individual may engage in a legal occupation without being subject to laws that regulate the occupation or profession which are arbitrary, unnecessary, or substantially burdensome.
Then there’s HB-1131 which calls for a committee to study what the impact would be if we abolished both the Supreme & Superior Courts! Also, some want to mandate that the Governor will need the approval of the executive council and general court (yes all 424 members) before seeking federal aid for emergency assistance (HB-1218). Any legislator even considering this – should take a ride along Rte 4 from White River Junction to Rutland Vermont. Even now in December ’11 the damage from Hurricane Irene is visible – so does it make sense to slow down the process?
Several legislators have filed a bill (HB-1126) requiring the NH General Court to nominate candidates for US Senator. Also, in response to the ongoing hysteria that’s jammed NH legislators email boxes for months from out of staters, regarding how we’ve elected as President someone who isn’t a US citizen, HB-1164 comes to the rescue and requires presidential candidates to submit documentation that they meet the qualifications for office as stated in the US Constitution.
Last but not least are the GUN Bills: HB-1375 allows persons convicted of nonviolent felonies to purchase and keep firearms; HB 1246 permits residents to apply to the director of the State Police or county sheriff for a license to carry a pistol or revolver, thus going around local police. HB-1341 repeals the statute prohibiting unauthorized use of a firearm in the compact of a city or town, and HB 1335 limits Fish & Game’s ability to deny a hunting license only if the person is prohibited under federal or state law from possessing a firearm. However, there’s more, HB-1318 will permit anyone to carry a loaded firearm openly or concealed, on their person or in a vehicle, and HB-1220 repeals the criminal history record and protective order check for the sale of firearms.
This is just a sampling – there’s more to come – but as an old statehouse reporter said last week when asked about this NH House – YOU CAN’T MAKE THIS UP! So stay tuned.
Monday, November 21, 2011
Just Say NO!
House Bill 590 became law without the Governor’s signature on June 29th, establishing a Committee to review NH’s participation in federal grant-in-aid programs, which on Nov 1; recommended NH should stop accepting federal grants. Rather than offer my perspective, here are the recommended policy changes for you to interpret firsthand. The full report can be found at http://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/statstudcomm/reports/2069.pdf.
“EDUCATION: This Committee is at a loss to understand why the general court ever thought that federal involvement in public education could ever be other than harmful both to the quality of education, the public fisc, and the independence of the state of New Hampshire within the federal system. Even before the Supreme Court’s Claremont series of education funding decisions attempted to impose centralized state control of education by oligarchic ukase, there was such a long tradition of local control and funding of education in this state that it would seem that our elected representatives would reflexively have viewed with the gravest misgivings so much further a removal of control as must inevitably be the result of opening the tent of New Hampshire to the camel’s nose of the first dollar of “assistance” from a federal Department of Education. By now, in the aftermath of 35 years’ experience with the federal Department of Education and 15 years experience with Claremont II, it must be clear to anyone not a member of or politically beholden to a teachers’ union that Thomas Jefferson, father of the University of Virginia, had it right when he declared in 1816 that the notion that schools would be better run by “any other general authority of the government than by the parents within each ward [is] a belief against all experience.” This Committee recommends that the general court extricate the state of New Hampshire from all manner of federal programs directly or indirectly affecting public education and the functioning and operations of public schools as soon as the expiration of current contractual commitments enable it legally to do so.”
“Nutritional Programs: It was through just such a program (the Act of November 23, 1921, 42 Stat. 224, c. 135, commonly called the “Maternity Act”), and the U.S. Supreme Court’s refusal to consider a challenge to its constitutionality (Massachusetts v Mellon, 262 US 447 (1923)), that the federal government was first enabled to breach, through grant-in-aid programs, the delineation of the separation of authority between the state and federal governments established by the federal constitution. If the state of New Hampshire considers the providing of nutritional programs for needful citizens of this state and the preservation of its sovereignty both to be worthwhile, it must provide and pay for such programs itself and cease accepting federal funding and the accompanying federal rules.”
“WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE: This federal program began – as so many do – as a “temporary” response to an emergency, in this case that created by the exponential increases in prices for crude oil and refined petroleum products following the OPEC embargo in 1973 in connection with that year’s Arab-Israeli War. It was intended to enable a smooth transition to the new reality of the cost of heating oil, but almost 40 years later it is still with us. Government subsidy encourages poor decision-making and dependency. The people of New Hampshire must be held competent to understand that every November, without fail, it gets cold at this latitude and that they must arrange their affairs so as to provide for this fact of life as a matter of personal responsibility. And again, if the state of New Hampshire considers assistance in the purchase of home heating oil for needful citizens and the preservation of its sovereignty both to be worthwhile, it must provide and pay for such assistance itself and cease accepting federal funding and the accompanying federal rules.”
“Grants for: Historic Preservation; Sexual Assault Services; Violence Against Women Prevention; Rural domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Stalking and Residential Substance Abuse Prevention; Prisoner Reentry Initiative; Safe Havens for Children; Delinquency Prevention; Crime Victim Assistance and Compensation; Community Policing; Enforcing Underage Drinking Laws; Senior Community Service Employment; Dislocated Workers Assistance; Promotion of the Arts: These and many other such federally funded activities, though each in itself undoubtedly a good thing, are subject to the same objections and contribute to the undermining of the federal system in the same manner as the educational, nutritional and/or weatherization assistance programs discussed above, and like them should as soon as possible either be discontinued or continued supported entirely with in-state sources of funding and control”
Some of the reasons given for this change are; “too many regulations – it’s not the fed’s job – people need to toughen up!” Please understand that no savings to the federal government will occur, as the funds will be re-allocated to other states. Also NH taxpayers won’t get a break on their income taxes; we’ll still pay our federal share. Imagine what the education impact will do to our local taxes. Of course we could just teach the 3 R’s – and prepare our youth for the 18th century! What’s next, a new motto Live Free - Freeze & Die!
“EDUCATION: This Committee is at a loss to understand why the general court ever thought that federal involvement in public education could ever be other than harmful both to the quality of education, the public fisc, and the independence of the state of New Hampshire within the federal system. Even before the Supreme Court’s Claremont series of education funding decisions attempted to impose centralized state control of education by oligarchic ukase, there was such a long tradition of local control and funding of education in this state that it would seem that our elected representatives would reflexively have viewed with the gravest misgivings so much further a removal of control as must inevitably be the result of opening the tent of New Hampshire to the camel’s nose of the first dollar of “assistance” from a federal Department of Education. By now, in the aftermath of 35 years’ experience with the federal Department of Education and 15 years experience with Claremont II, it must be clear to anyone not a member of or politically beholden to a teachers’ union that Thomas Jefferson, father of the University of Virginia, had it right when he declared in 1816 that the notion that schools would be better run by “any other general authority of the government than by the parents within each ward [is] a belief against all experience.” This Committee recommends that the general court extricate the state of New Hampshire from all manner of federal programs directly or indirectly affecting public education and the functioning and operations of public schools as soon as the expiration of current contractual commitments enable it legally to do so.”
“Nutritional Programs: It was through just such a program (the Act of November 23, 1921, 42 Stat. 224, c. 135, commonly called the “Maternity Act”), and the U.S. Supreme Court’s refusal to consider a challenge to its constitutionality (Massachusetts v Mellon, 262 US 447 (1923)), that the federal government was first enabled to breach, through grant-in-aid programs, the delineation of the separation of authority between the state and federal governments established by the federal constitution. If the state of New Hampshire considers the providing of nutritional programs for needful citizens of this state and the preservation of its sovereignty both to be worthwhile, it must provide and pay for such programs itself and cease accepting federal funding and the accompanying federal rules.”
“WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE: This federal program began – as so many do – as a “temporary” response to an emergency, in this case that created by the exponential increases in prices for crude oil and refined petroleum products following the OPEC embargo in 1973 in connection with that year’s Arab-Israeli War. It was intended to enable a smooth transition to the new reality of the cost of heating oil, but almost 40 years later it is still with us. Government subsidy encourages poor decision-making and dependency. The people of New Hampshire must be held competent to understand that every November, without fail, it gets cold at this latitude and that they must arrange their affairs so as to provide for this fact of life as a matter of personal responsibility. And again, if the state of New Hampshire considers assistance in the purchase of home heating oil for needful citizens and the preservation of its sovereignty both to be worthwhile, it must provide and pay for such assistance itself and cease accepting federal funding and the accompanying federal rules.”
“Grants for: Historic Preservation; Sexual Assault Services; Violence Against Women Prevention; Rural domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Stalking and Residential Substance Abuse Prevention; Prisoner Reentry Initiative; Safe Havens for Children; Delinquency Prevention; Crime Victim Assistance and Compensation; Community Policing; Enforcing Underage Drinking Laws; Senior Community Service Employment; Dislocated Workers Assistance; Promotion of the Arts: These and many other such federally funded activities, though each in itself undoubtedly a good thing, are subject to the same objections and contribute to the undermining of the federal system in the same manner as the educational, nutritional and/or weatherization assistance programs discussed above, and like them should as soon as possible either be discontinued or continued supported entirely with in-state sources of funding and control”
Some of the reasons given for this change are; “too many regulations – it’s not the fed’s job – people need to toughen up!” Please understand that no savings to the federal government will occur, as the funds will be re-allocated to other states. Also NH taxpayers won’t get a break on their income taxes; we’ll still pay our federal share. Imagine what the education impact will do to our local taxes. Of course we could just teach the 3 R’s – and prepare our youth for the 18th century! What’s next, a new motto Live Free - Freeze & Die!
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