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CONCORD, NH—Governor Kelly Ayotte has issued an executive order instituting a hiring freeze across New Hampshire’s state government. The measure, which went into effect immediately, underscores the administration’s commitment to fiscal discipline and efficient use of taxpayer dollars. Exemptions include law enforcement, corrections officers, child protective services, and direct care positions at state facilities, ensuring that critical public services remain unaffected.
“With the current budget environment, it’s clear we need to tighten our belts and live within our means,” Governor Ayotte stated in her announcement. “I informed Commissioners today that I will be instituting a hiring freeze across state government as we examine every agency and look for ways to do things better. Just like families do each day, we must match what goes out with what comes in. I look forward to continuing to work with our state’s leadership to make our government more efficient and provide further value for taxpayers.”
Focus on Fiscal Responsibility
The hiring freeze reflects Ayotte’s emphasis on managing state resources responsibly without compromising essential services. The Governor’s office has made it clear that this is not just about cutting costs but about identifying opportunities to make state government more effective.
Positions fully funded by federal or restricted revenues are allowed to proceed with internal postings, provided that agencies certify adequate funding is available to support these roles through the duration of their contracts. This certification ensures that taxpayer funds are not used to sustain roles outside the state’s means. Any requests to fill non-exempt roles must go through a waiver process, with approvals publicly posted for transparency.
Preserving Core Functions
Governor Ayotte’s order maintains a focus on protecting New Hampshire’s most essential services. Law enforcement, corrections officers, and child protective services were specifically exempted to ensure public safety and welfare remain a priority. Similarly, positions in areas such as direct care at state facilities and enterprise functions at the Liquor and Lottery Commissions are also excluded, as these are vital to both public service and state revenue generation.
Republican leadership in Concord, which has long emphasized low taxes and limited government, has supported efforts to find efficiencies in state operations. The hiring freeze complements these priorities by tightening controls on state payroll expenses without cutting critical programs. By carefully examining staffing needs and expenditures, Ayotte’s administration is working to balance fiscal responsibility with effective governance.
A Broader Push for Efficiency
This hiring freeze is part of Governor Ayotte’s broader strategy to ensure government operates efficiently and in line with the values of New Hampshire residents. By reducing unnecessary spending, Ayotte aims to preserve New Hampshire’s business-friendly environment while upholding the state’s tradition of fiscal prudence.
New Hampshire has long prided itself on its unique approach to government: low taxes, balanced budgets, and minimal bureaucracy. Ayotte’s administration seeks to reinforce these values while ensuring taxpayer dollars are used wisely and effectively.
Looking Ahead
The executive order will remain in effect until further notice, with agencies expected to adapt by prioritizing efficiency and optimizing their existing resources. Ayotte’s administration has made clear that this move is not an end in itself but a means to lay the foundation for a leaner, more effective state government.
As New Hampshire’s leadership continues to implement policies aimed at fostering economic growth and fiscal stability, this hiring freeze serves as a reminder of the administration’s focus on accountability and transparency. While the measure may require adjustments in the short term, it represents a commitment to ensuring the state remains a model of responsible governance.
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