AFT-NH Legislative Bulletin, 2021-09

February 28, 2021 - Bow, NH

 NH House Session   Over two days this week, the NH House met in session for the first time since early January.  The first day, in particular, was ugly, ill-tempered, and ultimately chaotic, one of the worst days in the NH House in recent memory.  Keep in mind that the day began with over thirty Democratic members unable to attend due to health concerns related to the COVID pandemic.  Republican leadership continues to refuse to even consider any means of remote access to accommodate these representatives, even voting down a rules change to allow for remote access (Republicans have rejected rules permitting remote access at least twice already, then claim the lack of a rule permitting remote access prevents implementation of a remote accommodation). At the same time, however, Speaker Packard (R-Londonderry) continues to bend over backwards to accommodate the 60 or 70 Republicans who refuse to wear masks or take even the slightest precautions in the midst of this pandemic.  These “unmasked” Republican members sat on one side of the Bedford Sportsplex, but while they were urged to wear masks when leaving their area, they were not required to do so.  Their lack of collegiality, civility, and respect for the welfare of others set the tone for the Republican majority’s behavior the entire day.

New Stipend for All Employees

The Federation has worked behind the scenes to demand recognition for teachers and school employees. You all have given so much this year, and sacrificed a lot to ensure your students have access to the best possible education. Thank you for your service.

In recognition of that dedication, we are proud to announce that all Monroe City School Board Employees will receive a stipend this Spring. Pending Board Approval at the March 16th School Board meeting

CFT Looking for delegates for May 1st virtual convention

The Chelmsford Federation of Teachers will be looking for delegates to their annual convention being held via zoom.  The convention is on May 1st!  Keep your eyes and ears out and we will let you know how many delegate seats are available!

More to come.

Meager Pay Raise or Meager Stipend? Ask the BESE and the Governor…

Today, Governor Edwards announced that he plans to include a small pay increase for teachers and school employees in his new Executive Budget. He proposed $400 for teachers and $200 for support employees. What remains unclear, is if this would result in a sustained raise or a one-time stipend, and whether or not there will also be additional monies put in level 1 of the MFP for schools to use more generally.

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