Sen. John Gallus, a Republican from Berlin, has joined only four North Country members of the House in supporting a bill that would give a business a tax credit when it donates to a parochial or private school.
As NHPR’s Dan Gorenstein reportedthe Senate Wednesday passed House Bill 1607.
Advocates of the bill say it gives less wealthy families more choices in where they wish to send their children.
Opponents, including Gov. Lynch, say it will take money away from public schools.
But the bill has veto-proof majorities in the House and Senate.
The Senate passed it 17 – 7.
The House voted on the bill in March, where it passed 173 – 127.
Four North Country reps voted for it; seven were opposed and five were excused from voting.
North Country reps who voted in favor of the bill are:
* Edmond Gionet (Republican) of Lincoln.
* Larry Rappaport (Republican) of Colebrook.
* Gregory Sorg (Republican) of Easton.
* Marc Tremblay (Republican) of Berlin
North Country reps who voted against the bill are:
* Lyle Bulis (Republican) of Littleton
* William Hatch (Democrat) of Gorham
* Gary Coulombe (Democrat) of Berlin
* William Remick (Republican) of Lancaster
* Kathleen Taylor (Democrat) of Franconia
* Robert Theberge (Democrat) of Berlin
* Yvonne Thomas (Democrat) of Berlin
North Country reps who were excused from voting:
* Duffy Daugherty (Republican) of Colebrook.
* Stephanie Eaton (Republican) of Littleton
* Evalyn Merrick (Democrat) of Lancaster
* Herb Richardson (Republican) of Lancaster
* John Tholl (Republican) of Whitefield
http://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/legislation/2012/HB1607.html
