Maxine MosleyPrimary Election 2022 Winner

If elected or re-elected, please describe legislation you expect to sponsor or co-sponsor.

Working across the aisle to find solutions to education funding, working on programs/grants to look at solar panels on all public schools and public buildings, incentives to bring new green technology to the State and create jobs in the industries of the future, enhancing/expanding individual rights in the area of health, more access to medical and clinical services in all areas of the State

What are the most important concerns you’ve heard from Manchester residents and how can you address those concerns if elected or re-elected?

Property tax relief, downshifting of costs from the State to the locals (especially for education), education funding

New Hampshire legislators are citizen legislators and being a legislator is a significant time commitment. How much time per week can you spend on legislative duties while the Senate/House is in session?

As a retired person, being a representative will be my priority focus and time commitment.

How do you feel the current divisive political climate in the United States will impact the New Hampshire General Court over the next two years and how would you navigate that divisiveness in your duties?

I believe that we can work together across the aisle and across ideologies. My life has been about hard work, collaboration and partnerships. The court needs to reflect the intent of the law and also the needs of the citizens in New Hampshire. We need to work together for the good of the State. We al need to stop posturing about what our parties are and make a commitment to talk and collaborate. I have been, and will continue to be, open to listening to others, asking essential questions working hard to come to collective conclusions so we can improve the quality of life in New Hampshire for everyone who lives here.

What is the most significant issue facing Manchester residents at the municipal level and how can you, as a legislator aid the city government on that issue?

I believe it is the downshifting of fiscal responsibilities to the local communities. Property tax relief is a critical issue for homeowners and renters alike. Funding our public schools is a critical issue. The condition of our roads is very concerning. We all want quality schools, safe schools, and progressive education. Revamping school funding and enhancing public safety at our schools and in our communities can be achieved if we stop doing things the way they have always been done. There are models across the country that need to be researched and implemented. At times, the money needs to be spent now to utilize new technology and use products that in the long run, will be more economic and sustaining. (such as new materials to improve our roads, green technology in our public schools and public buildings).

In your conversations with voters, what is the most significant issue to them right now? How would you address that if elected or re-elected?

Rising costs of all products and services. In light of the recent increase of electric services, home heating oil and gas prices in New Hampshire, we need to re-think our energy sources, now-not later! Action needs to happen; money needs to be designated and a strong accounting system needs to be put in place to ensure that the taxpayers in the State are receiving the best products and services for their money.

In your opinion, what were the five most significant pieces of legislation introduced over the last two years? Please explain what made them significant.

1. School Vouchers (Education Freedom Act): We are now using funds from the education trust to pay for private and religious schooling. The program is so expansive even for students who were already in private schools. This is significant because this is draining taxpayer funds away from public schools and putting increased burdens on property owners. Public funds should not be allocated for private and religious schools.
2. Redistricting: This is gerrymandering, especially in the State Senate and Executive Council districts, and attempted in the Congressional districts. This is a clear and biased attempt by one party to gain control over the citizens of New Hampshire. Live free or die does not translate to political or party control of or over voters in New Hampshire. Transparency and equity are the goals and the redistricting that was passed does neither.
3. “Parental Rights”: while this did not pass, the potential effect would have been tremendous on students and educators for nothing more than political gain. This is a blatant act of ignoring children’s rights in the name of so-called family values. As a career school counselor, I know first hand how important it is to allow young people to live their authentic lives and to feel safe in doing so. Schools and educators are the safe spot and people for many young people to express themselves without fear when they are not allowed to do so anywhere else.
4. Divisive Concepts: While there have been few to no cases that have been prosecuted under this law, the widespread chilling effects in classrooms across the State has been undeniable. More fear mongering without any factual basis. Our history needs to be told authentically and inclusive of all of its components- the good, the bad and certainly the ugly. Educators need to speak to the truth, not what is just comfortable for the scared, misinformed and ignorant.
5. The Abortion Ban: In light of the SCOTUS ruling, it is critical that the State of New Hampshire stand up for the rights of women to make their own reproductive decisions for themselves. We do not go far enough in this stance and the protection of our citizens is our duty and responsibility. Religious beliefs have no place in the collective conversation. Each-and-every woman has the moral right to determine when, or if, she will become a parent and to make decisions about her body. We will certainly see legislation from both sides of the debate moving forward. The goal for me is to support strengthen protections for women to make their own choices about reproduction.