House Leaders Comment on Governor’s Veto of Education Tax Credits

CONCORD – House Speaker William O’Brien (R-Mont Vernon) and House Majority Leader Pete Silva (R-Nashua) today offered the following comments in response to news that Governor Lynch vetoed Senate Bill 372, allowing education tax credits.  The bill would have allowed businesses to receive business profits tax credits when they contribute to education foundations that fund school choice initiatives.

House Speaker William O’Brien

“No parent should be forced to send a child to a bad school, and we should look for opportunities to allow parents to give their children the best chance possible to succeed.  This legislation makes school choice a reality for many children who lack the ability to find an educational environment where they can thrive.  This legislation is good for New Hampshire’s future and will bring competition to our schools, which should improve their quality as well.  I’m disappointed that the Governor chose to veto this common sense bill and we will work to make this bill law when we return for our Veto Day later this month.  Furthermore, I call on all candidates for governor, including former Senators Cilley and Hassan, to show that they understand the difficulties that many poor and working class families face in getting a quality education for their children by calling on Democrats to join with us in overriding this veto.”

House Majority Leader Pete Silva

“The only reason why the Governor would veto this great bill is that he feels he has to protect his teacher union buddies and Democrat education bureaucrats from competition.  This veto is purely about politics and not about doing what’s best for our children.  This bill helps students, gives more options to parents, protects local property taxpayers and gives businesses the chance to ensure a strong workforce in the future.  Overturning this veto will be a top priority for House Republicans on the 27th.”