From the Keene Sentinel: The Concord tax increase; Keep in mind how much state officials' decisions affect local property tax bills
“The flip of the calendar to the new year means the local budget season has begun in earnest. That’s when school districts, municipalities and counties go through the protracted process of setting their spending priorities and levels. The culmination comes when final budgets are approved, but the full ramifications hit when those budgets are translated into tax rates and, ultimately, property tax bills, which are rarely — if ever — welcomed by taxpayers."
"Balancing the state budget will be hard, but it’s a lot easier when the state government can off-load its responsibilities and then point the finger at local governments for the property tax increases needed to cover those responsibilities. As local budgets are developed this season, taxpayers should bear in mind the amount of their taxes being thrust on them by the state. Call it the Concord tax increase."
From InDepthNH: Right-to-Work Would Harm the State’s Moral Fabric, Committee Told
"The public hearing on House Bill 238, which would make New Hampshire the 27th right to-work state, drew an overflow crowd as union members, business organizations, faith groups, and other advocates turned out to oppose it, greatly outnumbering those testifying in favor. Opponents argued the bill is a veiled attempt to weaken labor unions, reduce wages and benefits, and interfere in private negotiations between businesses and workers."
"A number of union workers testified about the life-changing benefits of union membership, including better wages, workplace safety, health insurance, and training. Mike King, a retired ironworker, noted he retired with a pension, an annuity, and healthcare, which he called his 'pot of gold,' contrasting it with non-union workers where only business owners retire with wealth.
From the NH House Democratic Office: Committee Republicans Block Climate Resilience Bills
The House Science, Technology, and Energy Committee voted along party lines to kill three bills aimed at addressing the escalating impacts of climate change and rising energy costs in New Hampshire.
In response, Rep. Kat McGhee (D-Hollis), Ranking Member of the House Science, Technology, and Energy Committee, said, “By rejecting these forward-thinking bills, House Republicans have once again failed Granite Staters who are looking for leadership in Concord to tackle the growing climate and energy crises.
It’s deeply frustrating to see Republican leaders block initiatives that could address rising insurance and housing costs, extreme flooding, droughts, crop losses, cyanobacteria blooms, and other severe consequences of climate change. While House Democrats are working to lower costs, protect public health, and strengthen our economy, House Republicans are putting New Hampshire’s future at risk. Despite their claims of supporting 'free markets' and avoiding 'picking winners and losers,' Republican inaction leaves hardworking Granite Staters bearing the burden of climate inaction and rising energy costs. House Democrats remain committed to advancing solutions that tackle climate challenges and protect the well-being of Granite Staters.