An educated workforce is a key component of New Hampshire's continued economic vitality. The BIA will support legislation that adheres to our core principles for funding primary and secondary education in New Hampshire.

These principles are:
• Primary and secondary education is a shared responsibility among municipal, state and federal governments.
• State education funds should be maximized through thoughtful targeting of aid to cities and towns most in need. The BIA will support a constitutional amendment if required to accomplish this goal.
• The New Hampshire business community is the largest contributor of real dollars to the state Education Trust Fund. Any further increases in the Business Profits Tax, Business Enterprise Tax or property taxes applicable to business will put the state economy at risk and hurt New Hampshire's competitive tax environment vis-a-vis other states and countries.
• No income tax and no sales tax are key components of the New Hampshire Advantage, which must be maintained if we are to continue our economic prosperity.

The BIA will continue to work towards mitigating the rising cost of energy.

Action steps include:
• Support and participate in efforts to educate businesses on the benefits of energy efficiency and conservation.
• Support the development of renewable energy resources in New Hampshire, and explore development of increased incentives for energy efficiency and renewables.
• Support initiatives and policies that improve the reliability of electricity and natural gas delivery.
• Continue to help members explore competitive supply options.

Addressing the rising cost of health care and health insurance remains a priority concern of the BIA.

Action steps include:
• Oppose any new or added health insurance mandates.
• Support efforts to promote better health in the workplace.
• Support efforts to develop and implement electronic medical records and electronic prescriptions.
• Oppose cost shifting from Medicare and Medicaid to the private sector.
• Explore cost-effective ways to provide health care to the uninsured.

New Hampshire's constricting workforce is a priority concern for New Hampshire businesses.

Action steps include:
• Educate businesses and legislators on ways to address the state's constricting workforce.
• Oppose legislation that negatively affects workforce availability.

The BIA will continue working to improve the availability and affordability of workforce housing.
Action steps include:

• Support legislation aimed at increasing workforce housing stock.
• Establish an alternative, faster and more efficient method for appealing local regulatory decisions.
• Codify existing case law regarding city and town obligations to allow for affordable housing development.
• Require more specific housing language in community master plans.
• Encourage BIA members and chamber partners to become more engaged in workforce housing at the local level.
• Continue to increase awareness of the issue through workshops, forums and op-eds.
• Support the development of educational programs aimed at dispelling workforce housing myths.