On May 2, the N.H. Senate Finance Committee will hold a public hearing as part of its work to produce the state’s operating budget for Fiscal Year 2018-19.  The hearing will be held in two sessions in Representatives Hall at the State House, the first from 1to 5 p.m. and the second from 6 to 8 p.m.  Any member of the public is welcome to testify on any part of the state budget.

As we did during the House of Representatives deliberations on the budget, the Forest Society will testify in support of full funding for the Land and Community Heritage Investment Program (LCHIP). Click here to read our testimony to the House about the importance of LCHIP.  On Feb. 9, Gov. Chris Sununu submitted his proposed operating budget (referred to as HB-1 or the “budget bill”) for fiscal years 2018-2019.  Contained in his budget is $3.5 million for LCHIP in each of the two years of the biennium (fiscal years  in both 2018 and 2019).  This matches what was appropriated for 2016 and 2017.   Given the fiscal challenges facing other state agencies and programs, this level of funding is good news and reflects the strong bi-partisan backing for the program.

It is still important for LCHIP supporters to encourage lawmakers to continue this bi-partisan support.  If you are unable to attend the May 2 hearing, please contact members of the Finance Committee to register your support.