As Promised, Hassan Vetoes Budget

As promised, New Hampshire Gov. Maggie Hassan has vetoed the budget passed by the New Hampshire Legislature, saying it is unbalanced, makes false promises about what it funds and gives unpaid-for tax giveaways to big corporations.

The Republican-led Legislature passed both the two-year budget plan and a six-month spending plan after hours of debate Wednesday. The short-term plan will ensure the government stays open July 1.

Hassan, who vetoed the budget Thursday after announcing her intent to veto last week and then again Wednesday. She had said she would sign the short-term plan.

Senate President Chuck Morse, a Salem Republican, said he's disappointed in the veto, saying it blocks important funding increases that support state agencies and the state's neediest citizens and creates uncertainty within these organizations.