CONCORD – Today House Republican Leader Gene Chandler (R-Bartlett) and House Finance Ranking Republican Neil Kurk (R-Weare) offered the following statements in reaction to the conclusion of state budget negotiations between the House and Senate.”
House Republican Leader Gene Chandler (R-Bartlett)
“We believe the Senate budget proposal was the best option for the state. The committee of conference process is about compromise and we’re happy our Democrat colleagues in House agreed with the majority of the Senate proposal. The Senate did a fantastic job fighting to keep our state government on a sustainable course and adopting what House Republicans fought for throughout the budget process. ”
“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 to the counties and creating no new taxes or fees. This budget also continues the business tax reforms passed last year but suspended in the House version of the budget. 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.”
“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.”
House Finance Ranking Republican Neil Kurk (R-Weare)
“The committee of conference report on HB 1 and 2 is one fiscal conservatives can support. Largely following the Senate versions of the two bills, the budget is balanced using reasonable revenue estimates without new or increased taxes or fees. Compared to the current biennial budget, it represents a 2.8% increase in general fund spending and a 6.5% increase in total spending.”