The Business & Industry Association applauded the business priorities included in Gov. Chris Sununu’s budget plan, which supports several key issues for employers in New Hampshire.

Gov. Sununu, during his address Tuesday, Feb. 14, said his budget promotes New Hampshire as a hub of innovation to businesses across the nation, calling them the bedrock of New Hampshire’s communities.

New Hampshire’s workforce shortage continues to challenge businesses and other employers and the governor’s support is critical to solving this problem. BIA, the statewide chamber of commerce and leading nonpartisan business advocate, represents nearly 400 employers, large and small, in industries across New Hampshire.

“The lack of workers is among our members’ greatest challenges,” said BIA President & CEO Michael Skelton. “BIA is fighting for  this session that can help ease New Hampshire’s workforce shortage.”

Gov. Sununu’s budget plan includes an additional $55 million investment in workforce housing programs, and increases Medicaid reimbursement rates to help avoid cost shifting to businesses and help recruit and retain critical workers. The plan also seeks to strengthen New Hampshire’s future workforce by increasing state funding for public schools, including $5 million to expand the number of computer science teachers in the state’s middle and high schools.

The governor’s plan features measures to reduce regulatory burdens on businesses and workers, streamlining permitting and licensing requirements, while eliminating nearly 700 unnecessary statutory provisions.

The New Hampshire House and Senate are considering bills this session that would increase housing opportunities, permanently reauthorize expanded Medicaid, make a larger investment in the university and community college systems, and help improve access to affordable, quality child care. Improvements in each area, which require budget support, can help employers recruit and retain the talent they need to succeed.

“BIA is working aggressively to support these investments because they will pay dividends for Granite State employers, residents and the state’s economy,” Skelton said. “Gov. Sununu’s budget plan understands the need to make appropriate investments to further drive economic development and strengthen the attractiveness of the state. 

Michael Skelton is president and CEO of the Business & Industry Association. Visit BIAofNH.com.