Health and Human Services Commissioner John Stephen has notified the governor that he wants to resign next month.
NHPR’s Dianne Finch reports.
John Stephen plans to leave his post on August 14th instead of completing his 4-year term – which would end in October.
Governor John Lynch made it clear earlier in the year that the two didn’t see eye to eye.
In a letter addressed to his staff, Stephen touted the department’s ability to return $143 million to the general fund and listed many accomplishments made by staff.
Democratic Senator Kathleen Sgambati of Tilton said that despite some gains in long-term care and other areas – HHS faces some serious challenges going forward.
“So I’m hoping a strong policy person comes in that understands the business and supports staff going forward.â€
Sgambati, who was once acting HHS commissioner, is rumored to be under consideration as a candidate for the position.
But she said that she hasn’t been approached by the governor and that she remains committed to her work as a senator.
For NHPR News, I’m Dianne Finch.
