Gov. Lynch's Veto Message Regarding HB 1220

For Immediate Release:                                  Contact: Colin Manning
Friday, June 27, 2008                                           (603) 271-2121
                                                                (603) 361-4459 (cell)

Gov. Lynch's Veto Message Regarding HB 1220

By the authority vested in me, pursuant to part II, article 44 of the New Hampshire Constitution, on June 27, 2007, I vetoed House Bill 1220, an act establishing a study commission to study the taxation of alternative fuel and electric powered motor vehicles for the purpose of funding improvements to the state's highways and bridges.

While I appreciate the efforts of the sponsors of this legislation, I am concerned that this may send the wrong message about our commitment to developing alternative fuels and alternative vehicles.

Over the long term, alternative fuels and electric powered motor vehicles will help New Hampshire families and businesses lower their fuel costs, make our air and water cleaner, and provide new economic development opportunities.

These products and technologies are still in their infancy, and I am concerned that the consideration at this time of new taxes on this class of fuels and vehicles will harm the growth of this important new technology.