AS WE look to the future of New Hampshire, it’s important that we prioritize a vision for a freer, more prosperous Granite State. Under a House Republican majority, we have the unique opportunity to champion positive changes that will directly benefit our families, businesses and communities. By expanding education choice opportunities, reducing taxes, alleviating burdensome regulations, and protecting parental rights, we can build a better future for all New Hampshire residents.
One of the most significant steps we can take is to expand the EFA program. Education Freedom Accounts should be a personalized journey, tailored to meet the unique needs of each child. The EFA program has already proven to be wildly successful in providing families with the resources they need to choose educational options that align with their child’s needs. By expanding this program, we can ensure more families gain access to quality education, whether through public, private, or homeschooling options.
Empowering parents to make educational choices not only supports their rights but also fosters an environment where children can thrive. Every child learns differently, and providing families with the freedom to choose the best educational setting for their child is a fundamental step toward improving educational outcomes in our state. A Republican majority can make this vision a reality, ensuring policies that support parental involvement and student success.
Another important area where we can affect change is by lowering spending responsibly and making it possible to reduce taxes even further. New Hampshire is known for not having an income tax, but we must do more to make sure our tax policies reflect the needs of our citizens and businesses. A Republican-led House can advocate for tax reductions that put more money back into the pockets of hardworking Granite Staters while working to prevent inevitable tax increases by our opponents.
Lowering taxes is not just an economic strategy; it is what defines our unique state. Families and businesses should not be overburdened by taxes that stifle growth and innovation. By reducing the tax burden, we can foster a thriving economy that encourages investment, supports small businesses, and ultimately creates more jobs. A vibrant economy is essential for a strong community, and it starts with a tax structure that encourages rather than penalizes success. House Republicans will work hard to enact policies to help strengthen our position as the best place to live, work and raise a family.
In addition to tax reform, we must focus on alleviating the burdensome regulations that often stifle business growth. Many New Hampshire businesses are hampered by outdated or excessive regulations that make it difficult for them to operate effectively. A House Republican majority can lead the charge in reviewing and reforming these regulations creating a more business-friendly environment.
By cutting red tape and simplifying compliance processes, we can empower local businesses to grow and increase their revenue potential. This will not only stimulate economic growth but also encourage entrepreneurship, making New Hampshire a destination for innovators and job creators. A robust economy, supported by a thriving business sector, is essential for sustaining our communities and improving quality of life for all Granite Staters.
Perhaps one of the most vital roles of a government is to protect the rights of its citizens. In recent years, we have seen growing concerns about the role of parents in their children’s education and welfare. It is essential that we reaffirm the importance of parental rights, ensuring families have a voice in decisions affecting their children’s lives. By protecting these rights, we empower families to make informed choices in their children’s upbringing. This commitment to family strengthens our communities and fosters a culture of respect and collaboration.
We must remain committed to the principles that have long defined New Hampshire: freedom, personal responsibility, and community. Together, we can build a state where families thrive, businesses do well, and individuals have the freedom to pursue their dreams. By supporting a House Republican majority, we can enact positive changes that will shape the future of the Live Free or Die state and keep it from becoming another sanctuary state like Massachusetts.
The path forward is clear. Casting your vote for Republicans on November 5th is a powerful message to send to those seeking to destroy the very freedoms we cherish here in the Granite State.
Rep. Steven Smith is a Republican from Charlestown and is deputy speaker of the New Hampshire House. He represents Sullivan – District 3.