Brad Cook, Sheehan Phinney Bass + Green PA

The legislature saw a flurry of activity in the last week as it approaches the half-way point in the session, so-called "cross-over," when bills introduced in one chamber need to be considered by it and then, for those approved, sent to the other for consideration. As in all odd-numbered years, the budget, which originates in the House of Representatives as HB 1, is receiving the bulk of attention. 

House Finance Committee action has centered on reducing Gov. Hassan's proposal by the amount of revenue she included from expanded casino gambling--$80 million-with commensurate adjustments in spending. The committee recommended keeping some increased spending on University System and Community Colleges, albeit lower than the governor's requests, while adjusting other proposals, among its various actions. Obviously, what the House does with the Senate-passed casino bill, will be central in how all this plays out. In other fiscal action, the House passed a 12-cent per gallon gasoline tax increase, phased in over three years, to pay for needed infrastructure repairs, an action Senate leaders have predicted will fail to win Senate support.  Charter school funds were cut, as was uncompensated care to hospitals.

In other action, the Senate refused to pass a moratorium on new wind farms, opting instead for study of the siting process. The House repealed the so-called "stand your ground" legislation passed by the last legislature, a bill and a repeal that many called "full of sound and fury, signifying nothing," as no actual use of the right could be cited either by supporters or opponents. Attempts to tie the issue to gun control did not seem to get anywhere, although the repeal margin of four votes surprised many who thought it would pass the Democrat-controlled House more easily.

Scores of other bills were considered as well.

All of the action at the legislature, and the search for revenue to fund needed services, points to the obvious fact that if the legislature is going to refuse to consider new revenue sources, the existing ones need increased economic activity in order to produce more. Recognizing the changes in the New Hampshire economy since the go-go days of the 1980's and 1990's (with certain downturns, of course), business leaders for a number of years have recognized the need for a state economic plan.  Starting next month, a development process for such a plan is starting, spear-headed by the Business and Industry Association, which is a partner with local Chambers like the GMCC, in so many activities. Various task forces will consider various aspects of the economy, to try to develop a plan. All business leaders and citizens have a stake in this process and those interested are invited to participate in one of the groups, which include energy and related utilities, fiscal policy, healthcare, regulatory environment (labor and environmental), education, workforce skills and labor pool, workforce housing, infrastructure (transportation, waste and drinking water) and natural and cultural resources. 

Manchester-area residents will want to be sure the plan includes recognition of the special needs of urban areas including education, transportation, infrastructure and such topics of interest. This writer will chair the workforce and education group which will meet in Manchester. Anyone interested should contact Will Stewart at the Chamber or check the Business and Industry Association web site. Success of this effort could be critical to the state and its business community.

Finally, the state lost a quiet leader last week, when former House Speaker and State Senator Harold Burns of Whitefield died. Burns was typical of most House leaders, cherishing the process and its fairness to all members over specific policy objectives. Members who served with him remembered his humility and concern about others.

Enjoy the Easter weekend!