Dear NH Finance Committee
I am writing to encourage the Finance Committee to restore cuts made in the House-approved biennial budget to ensure those who would be most negatively affected have a reprieve from loss of services or direct funding—our lower income and disabled citizens.
I have been a resident of New Hampshire and the City of Dover since 1973. In that time I have witnessed many legislative accomplishments that have contributed to an enviable way of life for me, my family and our Seacoast community. During that time, there have also been times when I have disagreed with the state legislature and Governor over the priorities in the state budget.
I believe that the budget reflects who we are as a state and how we serve all of our friends, neighbors and citizens. Unfortunately, the current budget as passed by the NH House does not reflect the concerns facing many of our citizens, yet favors those who are more fortunate. While I understand the State faces serious revenue and budgeting issues, I believe we can do better.
First, I feel the repeal of the Interest and Dividends was not necessary. I paid that tax and was happy to do so and even though it was not significant for me, it was a significant revenue loss for the state. The I & E Taxes tend to be paid by relatively high-income individuals who are able to afford it. The repeal of this program is particularly unfortunate since we now have a budget shortfall. And the budget cuts outlined below impact those who are least able to afford the services that will be lost.
Second, restore the cuts to Medicaid. If retained, low-income Granite Staters will face new costs or be unable to afford the medical services currently available to them.
Third, the school voucher program (Education Freedom Accounts) is a policy that robs Peter to pay Paul—most of the beneficiaries already have children in private schools. And the program has no accountability that is very obvious to the average person. This program should not be expanded. Funds provided for this in the budget can be re-allocated to programs or institutions more in need, particularly our public schools.
Fourth, our University System is the backbone of higher education and an institution we should be proud of. Among many of its important functions, it provides programs that lead directly to employment opportunities for the students of our state. It seems like there have been many past budget cycles where it has been popular to go after University funding. This should stop. This System is our future.
Fifth, the Committee should reconsider the cutting/elimination of the following: Energy Efficiency Fund, Child Advocacy, Family Planning Program, Human Rights Commission, Housing Appeals Board, the Housing Champions Program and Commission on Aging. All of these agencies and programs have brought improved services and opportunities that address needs of NH citizens.
I strongly urge the Committee to restore these damaging cuts to the State’s proposed budget. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Jack Mettee
56 Rutland Street
Dover, New Hampshire 03820
603-749-4321
[email protected]
