Introduction

This second edition of New Hampshire Policy Points provides an overview of New Hampshire and the people who call it home. It focuses on some of the key issues that are paramount to supporting the economic well-being of all Granite Staters. Moreover, the book addresses areas of important policy investments that will help ensure better financial outcomes for our residents and a New Hampshire economy where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Nearly five years have passed since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, and many aspects of daily activities, the state’s economy, and public policy have changed. The lives of everyday Granite Staters have been deeply impacted by a confluence of various global, national, statewide, and local factors. Although an influx of federal pandemic-related funding came into the state, our residents still face challenges that impacted the economy before the pandemic. These challenges include access to affordable child care and housing, which have worsened during the interim years. Moreover, the consequences of the pandemic were not felt equally across the Granite State. Families and communities who were already at a disadvantage, including those with lower incomes and people of color, were often more severely impacted by the pandemic and its residual adverse effects.

New Hampshire Policy Points is intended to provide an informative and accessible resource to policymakers and the general public explaining and highlighting areas of key interest and concern to public policy in New Hampshire. Touching on some important points but by no means comprehensive, each section within New Hampshire Policy Points includes the most up-to-date information available on each topic area at the time of publication. The facts and figures included within this book provide useful information and references for anyone interested in learning about New Hampshire and contributing to making the Granite State a better place for everyone to call home.

About New Hampshire Fiscal Policy Institute

Founded in 2009, the New Hampshire Fiscal Policy Institute (NHFPI) is a nonpartisan, independent research nonprofit organization that examines issues related to the State Budget, the economy, policy decisions, and the financial security of Granite Staters, centering on topics relevant to people and families with low and moderate incomes. NHFPI produces regular reports on the fiscal and economic challenges facing New Hampshire and strives to serve as a resource to anyone interested in meeting those challenges in a fair and sound fashion.

With Gratitude

As a nonprofit organization, NHFPI’s work is only made possible by the generous support of foundations, organizations, and individuals who share its vision of opportunity and economic well-being for all New Hampshire residents. NHFPI does not receive funding from federal, state, or local governments.

The printing of the second edition of New Hampshire Policy Points was supported by Clove Hitch Advisors of Steward Partners. We are grateful for the philanthropic support their team has provided, in addition to their support of so many other important causes in our state. They believe in showing up, making a difference, and helping clients live lives of greater impact.

NHFPI is also profoundly grateful for the steadfast commitment of the Endowment for Health, Couch Family Foundation, New Hampshire Charitable Foundation, Annie E. Casey Foundation, and New Hampshire Children’s Health Foundation.

As a New Hampshire Policy Points reader, we hope you find value in NHFPI’s work. Please consider a financial contribution of support. Donations of any size from supporters allow NHFPI to produce independent analysis to inform policymakers, community leaders, and residents to make data-informed decisions. Your support helps us continue to publish high-quality research addressing the challenges facing New Hampshire residents. You can make a secure online donation at nhfpi.org/donate or mail your gift to NHFPI at 100 North Main Street, Suite 400, Concord, NH 03301.

New Hampshire Fiscal Policy Institute is a nonpartisan, nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization and your gift is tax-deductible to the full extent allowed by law.