CONCORD – House Republican Leader Dick Hinch (R-Merrimack) issued a statement following the House vote on HB712, relative to a family and medical leave insurance program. The bill passed by a 199-133 vote.
“We have a caucus of Democrats who want to increase wages, but at the same time are creating new programs to tax those wages, like the proposal in this bill. Between the uncertainty in our business taxes rates, the threat of increased regulations and mandates, it seems like the Democrats want to tell our small businesses what they can afford, who they can hire, and what benefits they need to provide,” Republican Leader Dick Hinch said. “Our state’s job creators know what it takes to attract and retain employees in this tight labor market. Many of our state’s employers can already provide similar coverage if they think it’s right for their workers. The importance here is the power of choice. The governor’s plan gives them the opportunity to opt-in to a program provide this benefit, while the Democrats’ program mandates it. Apparently, Democrats have chosen to disregard the vocal disapproval of the bill from groups like the Business and Industry Association.“