Statements by AFT-NH and AFT on Tabling of Local Voucher Bill

CONCORD, N.H.—Statements by AFT-New Hampshire President Deb Howes and American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten on the New Hampshire House of Representatives’ bipartisan tabling of a controversial local voucher bill:

AFT-NH President Deb Howes:

“AFT-NH commends the bipartisan legislators for coming together to protect public education and local property taxpayers. Public education is the bedrock of the Granite State, and students, school staff and taxpayers would have suffered if this misguided voucher bill had passed. New Hampshire lawmakers heard the voices of voters, who said that instead of another expensive voucher program, they want investment in their neighborhood public schools. We hope this stand for an equitable public education continues in the Legislature and bills like this never see the light of day again.”

AFT President Randi Weingarten:

“Every child in this country deserves a well-funded, safe, welcoming public school that helps them thrive academically, socially and emotionally. But voucher schemes take money away from our neighborhood public schools, and this one was particularly fiscally and educationally irresponsible. Today in New Hampshire, the voices of parents and community members were heard loud and clear: Don’t defund public education and raise property taxes for another voucher scheme. And the Legislature, in a bipartisan manner, listened, and we are grateful. As we continue help our kids recover from the pandemic, New Hampshire should invest in public schools and focus on giving all kids a high-quality public education.”

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