Senate President Sylvia Larsen and House Majority Leader Mary Jane Wallner pointed to the importance of preserving needed social services for the people for NH, job creation and economic growth as top priorities for the legislature going forward at this week’s Nonprofit-Capitol Exchange.  More than 50 nonprofit and business leaders were on hand for the policy-focused series which is co-hosted by The Center and the Sulloway & Hollis law firm in Concord.

Both political leaders noted that they have been involved with nonprofits for many years. Senate President Larsen noted that “both Mary Jane Wallner and I are well aware of the role the nonprofit sector plays in the quality of life that makes New Hampshire special.”   When asked about the legislative view of the nonprofit sector as an industry which adds to the state's revenue, President Larsen stated that traditionally she “had not thought to the nonprofit sector in this light, but it is now something to think about.” 

Nonprofit leaders in attendance voiced their concerns about state funding reductions, decreases in services in a time of increased need, the need to have more dialogue and education on revenue and spending, and the impacts on those served by the nonprofit sector of various policy choices. Discussion also focused on nonprofit sector can best communicate with legislators regarding the need for services and revenue sources in the current atmosphere and environment.    

The next Nonprofit Capitol Exchange is March 2, when Carol Shea Porter and possibly Paul Hodes will be guest speakers.  The Nonprofit Exchange is designed to provide nonprofit and government leaders with an opportunity to connect and share interests and concerns.