Cornerstone calls on Governor Hassan to preserve rights of low-income families
CONCORD- Cornerstone Policy Research today responded to Governor Maggie Hassan’s proposed budget for the 2014-15 fiscal year, claiming that it places priorities in the wrong place.
“I agree with Governor Hassan that education should be a priority in next year’s budget,” said Cornerstone Executive Director Ashley Pratte, “but I believe it should be a priority for everyone—not only for those who can afford to send their children to schools that offer an education tailored to their needs.”
Governor Hassan is proposing that New Hampshire eliminate the education tax credits that allow low income families to receive a tax credit if they choose to send their children to private schools instead of public schools.
“Parents should have a right to use the taxes spent on educating their child however they deem best” added Pratte. “Hundreds of low-income families rely upon this legislation, and we call on Governor Hassan and the legislature to preserve this fundamental rights of parents.”
“Eliminating the education tax credit is an attack on low-income families. And so is the Governor’s proposal to offer $80 million in licensing revenue to build a new casino,” said Pratte. “Study after study shows that those with lower incomes are more likely to take advantage of gambling options if it’s available in their communities. This inevitably leads to addiction problems, higher divorce rates, and a greater incarceration rates.”
“Cornerstone adamantly opposes any legislation that takes advantage of citizens’ financial desperation or leads to the erosion of the fundamental building blocks of our society,” said Pratte. “Bringing gambling into the state does both, and it’s not worth the short-term increase in revenue.”
Cornerstone is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to preserving New Hampshire’s values, limited government, and free markets through education, information, and advocacy. Cornerstone seeks to create an environment in which strong families—the foundation of our society—can lead New Hampshire into a new era of prosperity and strength. For more information, please visit www.NHCornerstone.org.
