A Time Like No Other
These past few years have presented us with unique challenges the likes of which we have never seen before.
In the midst of these uncertain times, I hear ALL Americans calling for the same basic principles; that of opportunity, safety, equality, liberty, and justice. Progress toward these ends come from listening to one another, considering different points of view, recognizing our shared humanity, and finding common ground whenever possible. It should never be a question of us against them but instead recognizing that we are all in this together. It’s about putting people over politics and good policies over party.
As a New Hampshire Teacher of the Year recipient, community leader, and Milford resident since 1987, I have dedicated myself to my family, students, and neighbors. Now as one of Milford’s state representatives, it has been my honor to bringing the same commitment to the state legislature, to lend my ideas, voice, and vote to address many important issues. I have been a strong advocate for children and families, students and schools, social and economic justice, and public health and safety.
I believe in government that supports everyone’s right to be themselves, provides opportunities which enables individuals to maximize their full potential, and allows them to choose their own destiny.
Working Together, Common Goals, Solutions
Political debate has increasingly become too divisive and mean-spirited. Now is the time to put politics aside and begin working to meet the needs of the people. “We can disagree without being disagreeable.” It’s all about putting people over politics and good policies over party.
Taxes …
I don’t want my taxes going up any more than the next person.
There is no need for an income tax or a sales tax in New Hampshire. Instead, we just have to stop reducing our limited revenue sources in the form of tax cuts to investors and out of state corporations. Additionally, the Meals and Rooms Tax was reduced by .05% – a negligible amount, saving patrons, many of them out of state tourists, 1 cent on every $2.00 spent.
As a result, the state has lost millions and millions in revenue which instead could have been shifted to our municipalities and school districts to reduce local property taxes. Property taxpayers deserve a break too.
Why are property taxes so high?????
Public Education
New Hampshire’s public schools consistently rank among the very best in the nation – yet dead last in state funding. The issue is not the quality of education but the equity of funding and disparity in property tax support from town to town.
Before considering school vouchers, the state must first meet its CONSTITUTIONAL OBLIGATION to adequately fund public schools.
School vouchers shift limited state resources to private, religious, and home schools leaving public schools behind. To make up the difference, local property taxes will have to increase.
Meanwhile, the cost of education shifts from the state to parents. Proponents frame their plan as “choice” but what choice do most parents really have when they have to come up with the big difference in tuition?
The state must step-up and support adequacy funding for education … for ALL our students.
“Divisive Concepts”
Throughout history, book burning was how political forces attempted to suppress so called “divisive concepts.” Today some use legislation to ban discussion on topics they find controversial and want suppressed. Those who love freedom are not afraid to have an honest, open, and thoughtful discussion on all matters that impact society.
I am proud to be the legislative leader in the fight to repeal New Hampshire’s “divisive concepts” law. Recently a federal court ruled the law to be unconstitutional.
Public Safety
In 2008, the United States Supreme Court ruling in Heller vs. the District of Columbia reaffirmed the 2nd Amendment right to bear arms. However, the conservative majority also ruled that guns and gun ownership would continue to be regulated.
Just as individuals have the right to bear arms for self-defense, I believe the public has the right to defend itself from individuals who should not possess firearms. Criminal background checks and waiting periods have the potential to save lives. They are at best, an inconvenience to gun owners, but not a violation of their rights.
Responsible gun owners support measures to limit the misuse of the 2nd Amendment. I too support common sense gun safety measures.
Veterans Affairs
I have long been a supporter of veterans’ interests and honored to be a member of the House Veterans’ Interest Caucus. We can never do enough in appreciation for our veterans’ loyal service to our country.
Speaking before the Second Battle of Fallujah Reunion in Merrimack.
Recognizing Milford’s Veterans during the Labor Day Parade.
Social Justice
EVERYONE HAS THE RIGHT TO BE THEMSELVES without prejudice and to be FREE to live their lives accordingly. There is nothing more basic to the American way of life than the principle of “liberty and justice for all.”
I have been a strong leader in defense of equal rights for ALL.
“The greatest thing you’ll ever learn is just to love and be loved in return.” – Eden Ahbez
Reproductive Rights
Economic Justice
The minimum wage in New Hampshire is $7.25 an hour. While few workers earn that rate, even with a few extra dollars more, New Hampshire workers fall short compared to every other New England state. There is no “advantage” in New Hampshire for workers. Low wages are a contributing factor as to why so many of our residents commute to jobs out of state. I support a gradual increase in the minimum wage and making it comparable to other states in our region.
Children and Families in Need
Peter Petrigno ~ State Representative 