CONCORD, NH - Leaders across New Hampshire are applauding Governor Kelly Ayotte's leadership in passing a budget that delivers results for all Granite Staters. From strengthening public safety and education, to restoring benefits for first responders and protecting services for individuals with disabilities, stakeholders from around the state say the budget keeps the Governor's promises.
Restoring First Responder Benefits
"We are incredibly grateful to Governor Ayotte for her leadership and unwavering support of our firefighters. Her advocacy in reaching a deal on retirement restoration is a meaningful step forward for those who risk their lives every day to protect our communities." – Brian Ryll, President, Professional Fire Fighters of New Hampshire
"When Governor Ayotte was elected, she made fixing the retirement issue a top priority and came through for New Hampshire's Troopers. Her dedication, leadership, and tenacity fixed a long-standing issue and solidified her dedication to keeping New Hampshire the safest state in the nation." – Frank Campo, President, New Hampshire Troopers Association
"Today, meaningful changes were made to address the law enforcement pension problems in this state. There is no doubt in my mind that our citizens respect politicians who keep their word and fight for change. That is what Kelly Ayotte did, and the entire state is better off and safer for it." – Michael Geha, President, New Hampshire Police Association
Tackling the Housing Crisis
"On behalf of the 27,000 Granite Staters who work in the residential building trades, the NH Home Builders Association enthusiastically applauds the passage of the state budget today. Governor Ayotte made clear her focused interest in cutting red tape and streamlining bureaucracy. The measures passed today do exactly that; it cuts red tape. Governor Ayotte directed state agencies to find ways to cut wait times while also ensuring safety and the preservation of our precious commodity, the environment.
"Collaboration begins with leadership and the NH Home Builders Association appreciates, and values, that Governor Kelly Ayotte kept her promise to make housing a priority and move government out of the way. Thank you, Governor Ayotte, you are delivering results for the people of New Hampshire, exactly as you promised." – Matt Menning, President, NH Home Builders Association
Protecting Vulnerable Granite Staters
"We are proud that this budget protects services for Granite Staters with developmental disabilities, including ensuring there continues to be no waitlist. The Governor stood firm through the budget process and fought cuts to critical programs. Thank you, Governor Ayotte, for standing up for New Hampshire's developmental disability community and ensuring access to services for the most vulnerable in our state." – Janet Bamberg, President, The Moore Center
Delivering for Manchester
"Governor Ayotte promised to be a partner and advocate for Manchester from day one in the corner office. From historic bail reform, to successfully fighting against cuts to our Manchester schools, to securing a solution for our Group II first responders, she's kept that promise. I thank Governor Ayotte for delivering for Manchester and all of New Hampshire." – Manchester Mayor Jay Ruais
Securing Bell-to-Bell Ban on Cell Phones
"As a mom, I'm incredibly grateful for Governor Ayotte's leadership in getting this done. Taking phones out of the classroom helps our kids stay focused, boosts their mental health, and gives teachers a real chance to teach without distractions. This is a win for students, parents, and educators alike." – Representative Melissa Litchfield, Brentwood
Strengthening the North Country
"Governor Ayotte understands the unique challenges we face in the North Country. Her commitment to law enforcement and border security in this budget is a big win for our officers and for the safety of every Granite Stater. Funding for the Northern Border Alliance and this new Northern Shield program will ensure we can continue to fight drug trafficking and keep dangerous criminals out of our state." - Coös County Sheriff Keith Roberge