New Hampshire lawmakers have successfully overridden two of Governor Chris Sununu’s vetoes, marking a significant defeat for the governor. The first veto override was for a bill that would enhance paid family medical leave for workers in the state. This legislation, known as SB 1, would provide up to 12 weeks of paid time off for employees to care for a newborn child, a sick family member, or themselves. The Senate voted 14-10 to override the veto, with all Democrats and one Republican joining forces to pass the bill.
The second veto override was for a bill that sought to establish a committee to study police reform and racial profiling. This legislation, known as SB 96, would have addressed issues of systemic racism within law enforcement and sought to improve community relations. The House voted 242-96 to override the governor’s veto, with strong bipartisan support for the bill.
Governor Sununu expressed his disappointment in the overrides, stating that he believed the bills were flawed and that they would have negative impacts on the state. However, Democrats and some Republicans argued that these bills were crucial for addressing important issues facing New Hampshire residents.
The successful veto overrides signal a shift in power within the state legislature, as lawmakers assert their authority and push forward with their legislative priorities. Governor Sununu will now have to contend with the implementation of these laws, despite his initial objections. The decisions made by lawmakers will have lasting impacts on the state and its residents, setting the stage for potential future clashes between the legislative and executive branches of government.
Source
Photo credit news.google.com