Kaos Borne

Reasons to oppose the bill include: - Removal of Anti-Discrimination Protections: The bill eliminates "gender identity" from laws that protect residents from discrimination. - Targeting of Vulnerable Groups: It is considered part of a broader, discriminatory agenda in the 2026 legislative session that targets LGBTQ+ people. - Systemic Erasure: By removing the term "gender identity" from all state statutes, the bill seeks to legally erase recognition of transgender individuals in state law. Key Fiscal Objections: - Shifting Tax Burden: Similar to other proposed tax policy shifts, opponents the bill could reduce revenue at the state level, placing further pressure on local municipalities to raise property taxes. - Revenue Uncertainty: If the bill alters tax structures, it creates uncertain or insufficient revenue streams to fund state programs without cutting services. - Administrative/Compliance Costs: Any new requirements or regulatory changes introduced by the bill could create additional administrative costs for state agencies or private entities. - Economic Impact on Specific Sectors: If the bill affects industry-specific taxes or fees, it creates an uncompetitive environment. Data regarding the specific, isolated revenue contribution of transgender community members in New Hampshire is not explicitly separated in public reporting, but they are part of the broader, significant LGBTQ+ economic impact in the state. Key findings regarding the economic contribution of the LGBTQ+ community in New Hampshire include: - Total Economic Impact: Roughly 4.7% of New Hampshire residents identify as LGBTQ+, contributing to a total estimated personal income of $3.9 billion in the state. - Economic Growth: Studies suggest that inclusive policies, which protect transgender and queer individuals, have helped the state's economy, with one estimate suggesting a 3% boost in economic growth ($2.5 billion) linked to such an approach. - Business Impact: When LGBTQ+ employees do not feel welcome, employee turnover costs companies an average of $10,208 per employee in New Hampshire. Alienating the queer community in New Hampshire presents significant fiscal risks, potentially threatening billions of dollars in economic activity, reducing workforce recruitment, and endangering state funding for education. Research suggests that LGBTQ+ individuals contribute roughly $3.9 billion in personal income to the state economy. Potential fiscal impacts of anti-LGBTQ+ policies or sentiment include: 1. Direct Economic and Workforce Impact - Reduced Economic Growth: Inclusive, non-discriminatory environments are linked to economic growth. One estimate suggests LGBTQ+ inclusion has contributed to a 3%—or $2.5 billion—increase in New Hampshire's economy. - Workforce Shortages and Recruitment Challenges: Business leaders have noted that anti-LGBTQ+ legislation tarnishes the state's reputation, making it harder to recruit and retain talent. - High Turnover Costs: When employees do not feel welcomed, they are more likely to leave. Replacing an employee in New Hampshire costs an average of $10,208, and up to $383,932 for senior executives. - Reduced Tourism Revenue: Tourism is a major revenue driver in New Hampshire ($2.3 billion in summer 2023). An unwelcoming environment could cause LGBTQ+ travelers, a high-spending demographic, to choose other destinations. 2. State Funding and Institutional Risks - Loss of Public Education Funding: Anti-DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) legislation could risk millions in state and federal funding for schools. One estimate indicates that vague, restrictive legislation could jeopardize over $1 billion in annual state aid to public school districts. - Higher Costs for Families: Lack of protections (discrimination in housing, employment, healthcare) results in higher poverty rates, reduced income, and increased financial strain on families. - Healthcare Industry Impact: Proposed restrictions on gender-affirming care could cause medical providers to leave the state or lose their licenses, affecting healthcare revenue and access to care. 3. Long-term Economic Consequences - Brain Drain: If LGBTQ+ individuals and allies feel unsafe or unwelcome, they may move to more inclusive states, leading to a loss of skilled labor, entrepreneurs, and taxpayers. - Reduced Innovation: The "creative class" and innovative industries often thrive in diverse, inclusive environments. Hostility toward these communities can stifle local innovation and economic dynamism. Business groups have argued that such legislation is counter-productive to addressing existing workforce challenges. Is this really a demographic that NH can afford to alienate?