New Hampshire legislators discuss severe cuts to USNH funding impacts on education and workforce

Concerns over proposed cuts to New Hampshire's higher education funding dominated the House Finance Division II meeting on March 28, 2025. Representatives voiced strong opposition to the potential impact on the University System of New Hampshire (USNH), emphasizing that such cuts could severely hinder the state's workforce development and economic future.

Representative Hagen Phillips highlighted the critical role USNH plays in preparing students for the workforce, stating, "When you cut off the pipeline of future nurses, future teachers, future workers, you're really hurting not just the immediate regional economic drive but also the future ability for our state." Phillips warned that a proposed $25 million cut could lead to tuition increases and even threaten the viability of campuses, stating, "Students should be really concerned whether or not their campuses can stay open."

The discussion underscored the interconnectedness of education and economic health in New Hampshire. Representatives argued that cutting funding would not only affect current students but also the state's ability to attract and retain talent in key industries. Phillips pointed out that New Hampshire faces workforce challenges across various sectors, and USNH is essential in addressing these issues through partnerships with businesses and innovative programs.

The meeting also touched on alternative proposals that would avoid cuts to K-12 education, with some representatives advocating for a more balanced approach to budget cuts. However, the overarching sentiment was clear: the proposed cuts to higher education funding are seen as detrimental to the state's long-term economic stability and growth.

As the legislature moves forward, the implications of these discussions will be closely watched, with many advocating for a reconsideration of funding priorities to support New Hampshire's educational institutions and, by extension, its workforce.