To the Editor:
Although state representatives vote on issues that range from the state budget to whether citizens can collect seaweed at night (HB 1376), candidates are routinely asked what issues they are running on.
As a candidate for Sullivan County District 9, I have focused on three issues where I have experience and knowledge: the opioid crisis, educational opportunities, and over-regulation.
I have been an EMT for almost four decades. I have seen the harsh reality of drug abuse first hand. I am encouraged by the recent development of using treatment “hubs” that bring drug treatment centers within a 1-hour drive of most parts of the state. An area we need to work on is the step that follows that: reintegration into society and the workforce.
After home schooling all nine of our children, I’ve learned that, while most families use public schools to educate their children, there is a place for alternatives like home schools, charter schools, and private schools, and that parents know the best educational fit for their children.
I support our community colleges. They are a way to help keep college costs down; they offer dual enrollment opportunities for high school students and they offer a chance to get associates degrees or basic college credits at a reasonable cost that can then be transferred to four-year colleges. For those who do not choose to go to college, internships and school/ business collaboration can help make sure we have a ready workforce.
It takes longer to re-certify as a volunteer EMT than it does as a nurse. Over-regulation is stifling many occupations and volunteer agencies. This hurts small businesses and volunteer organizations like fire departments and rescue squads. We need to look carefully at how we can balance safety and certification without making unnecessary hoops for businesses and organizations to jump through.
No one has all the answers to the challenges facing New Hampshire, but I have long experience in serving and leading at the town, county, and regional level, and would like to take that experience to Concord.
If you live in Unity, Sunapee, Croydon, Newport, Springfield, Grantham, Plainfield or Cornish, I am asking for your support on Tuesday, November 6.
You can contact me at (603) 675-9159 or [email protected]
or learn more about me at Facebook.com/DryeNH or www.DryeNH.com.
Margaret Drye
Plainfield
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