Story Archives of 'Lou D'Allesandro'

Governor Lynch says the plan puts the state on solid financial footing. Republicans say budget problems will be their top campaign issue.

A new bill proposes to reduce penalties for possessing a small amount of marijuana in the state. Supporters call it more just punishment for an infraction many already commit, but opponents warn it would send the wrong message about drug use. The bill has passed the House but faces a tough time in the Senate and a veto threat from the Governor. We’ll look at current marijuana law, the new proposals and New Hampshire's attitudes around this drug.

Guests

• Matt Simon, Executive Director for the New Hampshire Coalition for Common Sense Marijuana Policy
• Richard Crate, Police Chief for the town of Enfield and Executive Board Member for the Police Chiefs Association of New Hampshire

We'll also hear from

• Jeff Fontas, Democratic Representative from Nashua and primary sponsor of HB 1623
• Lou D’Allesandro, Democratic State Senator from Manchester
• Richard Van Wickler, Superintendent of Cheshire County Law Enforcement and member of the Law Enforcement Against Prohibition

In an unexpected move, the Senate did not kill a bill to expand gambling.

Some senators who have often opposed the concept are taking a second look.

New Hampshire Public Radio’s Dan Gorenstein has more.

Governor John Lynch says cuts could reach $50 million. As Democrats point to a slowing national economy, Republicans point to overspending.

The child pornography allegations facing State Democratic Party Vice Chairman Ray Buckley has focused plenty of attention on both the accused and his accuser, GOP State Representative Steve Vallaincourt.

But, as New Hampshire Public Radio's Josh Rogers reports, there is another key player in this story -- the no-holds barred political culture of the city of Manchester and its public access television shows.