Connie Van Houten
Running forNH State Rep. District 45
in 2020
Running as Democrat
I was a teacher at Memorial High School for 36 years; adjunct college professor; teacher in adult education and public, private, and parochial schools – English, ESL, and special education.
Currently serving a second term as a state representative in Hillsborough District 45 (Manchester wards 10, 11, 12), served two terms on the Manchester School Board
Current jobRetired
Time lived in NHAll my life
Manchester public schools, BA in English/Education, MA in Language and Learning Disabilities, certificate in gifted and talented education
Best way to contact candidateconstance.vanhouten@leg.state.nh.us
603-622-9701
If elected or re-elected, please describe legislation you expect to sponsor or co-sponsor.
Change of teacher tenure from 5 years back to 3; study of retention of rape kits; creation of a transfer on death deed; other legislation related to long-term care, to education, and to mental health
What are the most important concerns facing you’ve heard from Manchester residents and how can you address those concerns if elected or re-elected?
Many residents have expressed concerns about housing. The housing market is tight, and, with COVID-19, homeowners and renters who have lost jobs or work hours may be facing loss of housing. Bills at both the federal and state level to provide economic stimulus funds, unemployment benefits, and housing assistance, for instance, in staying evictions, will need to be considered.
How does your background (excluding time serving in the position you are seeking) qualify you for the position you are seeking?
I currently serve on the Commerce committee, which has the most House bills each year. Many times we have met 3-5 full days a week. I have not missed a meeting in four years and have attended other meetings and House sessions, as well. I can devote as much time as necessary.
In your view, describe the atmosphere within the legislature over the past two years. Do you believe this atmosphere will continue and how would that affect how you approach this position if elected or re-elected?
The atmosphere has been somewhat polarized between the two parties. Although this may continue, my experience within the committee setting has been positive. Common courtesy goes a long way.
What is the most significant issue facing Manchester at the municipal level and how can you, as a legislator aid the city government on that issue?
Issues related to COVID-19 are paramount. I’m not sure that we even know all of the issues yet, but education has taken on a new face; businesses, especially small businesses, have suffered some huge financial losses; work at home has become a new standard for some workers and other workers have lost their jobs or had hours cut; and housing issues have been exacerbated, for example. Our legislators will need to be nimble, thoughtful, and ready to interconnect with federal legislation and agencies of support for Manchester citizens in legislative efforts.
With the uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 in the future, do you support the legislature meeting remotely?
Yes.
In your opinion, what were the five most significant pieces of legislation introduced in the New Hampshire General Court over the last two years? Please explain what made them significant.
Not all of the following legislation has passed; however, legislation related to family medical leave, minimum wage, Medicaid expansion, a budget that sent an infusion of sorely needed education money to Manchester and other cities and towns, and voting reform stand out from among many pieces of legislation that have been significant. The significance of each of the five can, of course, be discussed at great length. What they all have in common, though, is that their intent is to improve the lives of NH citizens, in particular, as related to financial well-being, support for education and for the taxpayer in funding that education, health, support for the family, and safeguarding the voting rights of citizens.