CONCORD – Today House Republican Leader Gene Chandler (R-Bartlett) offered the following statements in reaction to the passage of the State Budget committee of conference report by the House and Senate.
House Republican Leader Gene Chandler (R-Bartlett)
“New Hampshire’s taxpayers deserve an honest and transparent budget that promotes an efficient and accountable government that is built on realistic revenue estimates. I’m confident this budget leads us in that direction.”
“Throughout the budget process Republicans have insisted on reliable sustainable revenue estimates. Nothing can get us in more fiscal trouble than overestimating revenues. I am pleased that this budget relies on revenues at levels presented by the Senate and agreed to by our House Republican Ways & Means committee members.”
“This budget will keep our state government on a fiscally sustainable course by keeping spending levels in check. Being able to produce a budget that helps fund important priorities while not including any tax or fee increase is a significant achievement.”
“We are also happy to see that this budget allows for funding to our state’s valuable charter schools while lessening the impact of downshifting costs to the counties. This budget also continues the business tax reforms passed last year but suspended in the House version of the budget.”
“Medicaid expansion is a serious matter that deserves a full comprehensive study an fair up or down vote of the full legislature separate from the state budget. I’m glad we’ve been able to maintain the Senate’s position to study before we consider implementation. Although the timeline is tight, we will know more through this study process and our legislators can make a truly informed vote on this stand alone issue. It’s only fair we give this policy the same scrutiny as any other major piece of legislation.”