Iz Piedra
Running forNH State Rep Hillsborough District 8
in 2020
Running as Democrat
At age30
State Representative, 2018- present
Current jobAttorney
Current residenceManchester
Time lived in NHAll my life except for college
B.A., Bates College; J.D., Boston College Law School
Best way to contact candidatehttp://www.izfornh.com/
izforNH@gmail.com
WebsiteIz for NH
If elected or re-elected, please describe legislation you expect to sponsor or co-sponsor.
I plan to continue pursuing legislative priorities like equitable education funding, property tax relief, affordable health care, environmental protection, and affordable housing, among many other issues.
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?
One issue of acute importance to many voters — particularly younger ones like myself — is affordable housing in New Hampshire. The lack of housing stock and the resulting astronomical home and rental prices is a crisis in this state. In fact, it’s more like an emergency. We need to enact the recommendations of the bipartisan affordable housing commission issued in 2019. And even that is only a modest starting point.
How does your background (excluding time serving in the position you are seeking) qualify you for the position you are seeking?
Despite having a full time job, I attended the vast majority of House sessions and committee meetings during my first term in the legislature. I anticipate being able to repeat that commitment in my next term.
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?
Unfortunately, it’s divisive. Both parties bear some blame for that environment. I always try to act with dignity and courtesy during my legislative duties, regardless of which political party I’m dealing with. All I can do is continue with that approach and hope that my colleagues join me.
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?
In 2019, I helped pass a state budget which included $11 million in additional education funding for Manchester. I hope to continue to provide state funding for Manchester public schools.
With the uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 in the future, do you support the legislature meeting remotely?
Yes. I think it’s past time the legislature steps into the 21st century and utilizes the technological tools available to us. Meeting long term at the UNH hockey arena is not realistic.
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.
- Historic levels of state education funding (2019)
- Paid Family Medical Leave (2019 and 2020 — vetoed)
- Allowing absentee voting for COVID-19 related concerns (2020)
- Expanding bail reform (2020)
- Establishing an Independent Redistricting Commission (2019 and 2020 — vetoed)