Moira K. Ryan

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2026

Do you support the “Education Freedom Account” program, which gives students access to the per-pupil share of state school funding to spend on private school or home school expenses?

"As someone with a graduate degree in Education Policy and years of experience advocating for students with disabilities and their families, I have learned that education is not one-size-fits-all. Every child learns differently, and no single educational setting is the best fit for every student. I support Education Freedom Accounts because they give families additional options to find the educational environment where their child can succeed. I also believe we should continue supporting strong public schools, because they remain the right choice for many families. Parents deserve meaningful choices, and every child deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential."

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2026

Should New Hampshire’s anti-discrimination law allow segregation based on biological sex in some settings, such as bathrooms and locker rooms?

"I believe everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, and no one should face discrimination because of who they are. At the same time, I believe there are certain settings—such as bathrooms, locker rooms, overnight accommodations, and some athletic competitions—where biological sex may be an appropriate consideration to protect privacy, safety, or fairness. Any policy should strive to respect the rights and dignity of all individuals while thoughtfully balancing these competing interests."

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2026

Should New Hampshire ban abortions during the first trimester (e.g. after 6 weeks gestation)?

"Abortion is one of the most difficult and personal issues families can face. I support maintaining New Hampshire's current law, which balances respect for unborn life with limited exceptions in difficult circumstances. I recognize that every family's situation is unique, and these decisions are often made under incredibly challenging circumstances. I do not believe New Hampshire should move toward more extreme policies in either direction."

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2026

Should New Hampshire ban abortions during the second trimester (e.g. after 15 weeks gestation)?

"Abortion is one of the most difficult and personal issues families can face. I support maintaining New Hampshire's current law, which balances respect for unborn life with limited exceptions in difficult circumstances. I recognize that every family's situation is unique, and these decisions are often made under incredibly challenging circumstances. I do not believe New Hampshire should move toward more extreme policies in either direction."

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2026

Should NH add an income tax on earned income?

"When I talk with people, I hear the same concerns over and over again. Families are worried about rising grocery bills, higher mortgage payments, increasing utility costs, and whether they'll be able to afford to stay in the communities they love. At a time when so many people are struggling with the cost of living, I cannot support a broad-based income tax. Government should be looking for ways to help families keep more of what they earn—not take more of it. I believe we can do that through responsible spending, encouraging economic growth, and supporting the businesses that create jobs and strengthen our communities."

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2026

Should New Hampshire lower business taxes?

"I support maintaining a competitive business tax environment because businesses create jobs, provide services, and generate the revenue that helps fund state government. When local businesses grow, they hire employees, invest in their communities, and broaden the tax base. That can reduce pressure to raise taxes on homeowners and families. However, any changes to business taxes should be made responsibly, with careful consideration of their impact on the state budget and essential public services. Many of our smaller businesses, places like Estey's Country Store, share with their community by sponsoring holiday lights as well as gift cards to concert on the commons and share with the community because lowering taxes enables them to do so."

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2026

Should the state do more to encourage municipalities to remove zoning barriers to housing development?

"I support encouraging communities to consider zoning changes that increase housing opportunities, but I also believe local communities should have a meaningful voice in those decisions. New Hampshire faces a real housing shortage that affects young families, seniors, veterans, and employers trying to attract workers. Thoughtful zoning changes—such as accessory dwelling units, redevelopment of underutilized properties, and appropriate workforce housing—can help address these challenges while preserving the character of our communities. I believe solutions should balance the need for additional housing with local planning, infrastructure, public safety, and environmental considerations."

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2026

Should New Hampshire do more to encourage the development of nuclear power, including small modular reactors (SMR), in the state?

"New Hampshire is already home to Seabrook Station, which provides a significant portion of the state's electricity. At this time, expanding nuclear generation is not an issue currently before the Legislature (that I am aware). If proposals for new nuclear development or expansion were brought forward, I would evaluate them based on their fiscal impact, public safety, environmental considerations, reliability, and whether they would provide long-term value to New Hampshire families and businesses."

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2026

Do you support legislation to expand the net energy metering system capacity cap from 1 MW to 5 MW for all residential and commercial customers in New Hampshire?

"I support policies that help New Hampshire families reduce their energy costs, but I also believe those policies should be fair to all ratepayers. Before expanding net metering, I would want to ensure that it encourages innovation and consumer choice without unfairly shifting costs to homeowners, renters, or businesses that are unable to participate."

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2026

Should New Hampshire restore funding for the Office of the Child Advocate?

"I believe New Hampshire has a responsibility to protect vulnerable children, but I am not convinced that restoring funding for the Office of the Child Advocate is the best use of limited state resources. Based on my observations, I have concerns about whether the office has consistently focused on its intended mission. Given our limited resources, I would prioritize funding for direct services and offices with demonstrated need, such as the Office of the Special Education Advocate, which plays a critical role in helping families navigate complex special education issues and is currently under-resourced."

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2026

Should New Hampshire guarantee the right to access abortion before 24 weeks?

"Abortion is one of the most difficult and personal issues families can face. I support maintaining New Hampshire's current law, which balances respect for unborn life with limited exceptions in difficult circumstances. I recognize that every family's situation is unique, and these decisions are often made under incredibly challenging circumstances. I do not believe New Hampshire should move toward more extreme policies in either direction."

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2026

Should New Hampshire reinstate the interest and dividends tax?

"I understand why reasonable people disagree about repealing the Interest and Dividends Tax. My concern is that many New Hampshire residents—particularly retirees and others living on investment income—had planned their retirement around the savings they had accumulated over a lifetime. At a time when families are already dealing with inflation and rising costs, I believe we should be cautious about taxing people's savings. At the same time, I also believe we have a responsibility to ensure the state is fiscally responsible and can fund its core obligations without simply shifting costs elsewhere."

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2026

Do you support New Hampshire’s current system of public school funding, with about two-thirds of total funding coming from local property taxes?

"I believe New Hampshire's reliance on local property taxes places a significant burden on many homeowners, particularly seniors on fixed incomes and young families struggling with rising housing costs. We should continue to support local control of education while looking for responsible ways to reduce pressure on property taxpayers. I do not believe the solution is simply to replace property taxes with a broad-based income or sales tax. Instead, we should encourage economic growth, broaden the tax base, ensure state education funding is distributed fairly under the law, and spend taxpayer dollars efficiently so communities can provide a quality education without placing an ever-increasing burden on homeowners. Under current leadership, effort has been made to increase funding from the state to the schools, however, there are additional funding sources which should be explored and a little creativity goes a long way like the districts effort to find sponsor for the local sports fields to defray the costs form taxpayers."

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2026

Should New Hampshire legalize the recreational use of marijuana by allowing home-growing and private use without sales?

"I oppose the legalization of recreational marijuana because I believe it poses risks to public health and public safety. I am particularly concerned about impaired driving, the impact on young people, and the message legalization sends about recreational drug use. While I support appropriate access to marijuana for legitimate medical purposes under existing law, I do not support expanding its recreational use in New Hampshire."\

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2026

Should New Hampshire legalize the recreational use of marijuana by licensing growers and private retail locations?

"I oppose the legalization of recreational marijuana because I believe it poses risks to public health and public safety. I am particularly concerned about impaired driving, the impact on young people, and the message legalization sends about recreational drug use. While I support appropriate access to marijuana for legitimate medical purposes under existing law, I do not support expanding its recreational use in New Hampshire."\

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2026

Should New Hampshire legalize the recreational use of marijuana by establishing state-run cannabis stores?

"I oppose the legalization of recreational marijuana because I believe it poses risks to public health and public safety. I am particularly concerned about impaired driving, the impact on young people, and the message legalization sends about recreational drug use. While I support appropriate access to marijuana for legitimate medical purposes under existing law, I do not support expanding its recreational use in New Hampshire."\

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2026

Should New Hampshire require new voters to provide proof of U.S. citizenship, such as a birth certificate or passport, when registering to vote?

"I support requiring proof of U.S. citizenship for new voter registrations because voting is a fundamental right of American citizens, and reasonable verification helps maintain confidence in our elections. I have personal experience with this process when helping my disabled child obtain the documentation he needed. While it took some effort, it was not an impossible burden. I believe the state should make the process as straightforward as possible and provide assistance to those who have difficulty obtaining the necessary documents, while still ensuring that only eligible citizens are registered to vote."

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2026

Should New Hampshire allow at least 10% of students in each school district to enroll in a different public school, regardless of where they live?

"I support reasonable public school open enrollment because I do not believe every child learns best in the same educational environment. While our public schools work hard to meet the needs of diverse learners, no single school or program is the best fit for every student. Some students thrive in specialized programs, career and technical education, or schools that better match their individual learning needs. Open enrollment, when implemented with appropriate limits and adequate resources, can provide families with additional educational opportunities while maintaining local control and ensuring schools have the capacity to serve all students effectively."

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2026

Should New Hampshire repeal the ban on abortion after 24 weeks gestation?

"Abortion is one of the most difficult and personal issues families can face. I support maintaining New Hampshire's current law, which balances respect for unborn life with limited exceptions in difficult circumstances. I recognize that every family's situation is unique, and these decisions are often made under incredibly challenging circumstances. I do not believe New Hampshire should move toward more extreme policies in either direction."

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2026

Should state law cap how much local school districts can increase their budget each year?

"As someone who has spent years working in education policy, I understand the desire to control property taxes. Families are feeling the effects of inflation, and every tax dollar matters. However, I don't believe an arbitrary school district tax cap is the answer. Schools must be able to respond to changing student needs, legal obligations, and economic realities. Historically, rigid caps have often reduced educational opportunities rather than improving efficiency. I believe we should demand transparency, accountability, and responsible budgeting while allowing local communities to make decisions about the level of investment they want in their schools."

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2026

Should NH pass stricter gun control laws?

"As a disabled Army veteran, I understand both the importance of responsible firearm ownership and the constitutional rights protected by the Second Amendment. I do not believe stricter gun laws that primarily affect law-abiding citizens are the most effective way to reduce crime. Instead, I support enforcing existing laws, addressing violent offenders, and promoting responsible firearm ownership and safety."

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2024

Should NH add a broad-based sales tax?

"Against"

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2024

Should New Hampshire add a tax on capital gains?

"Against"

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2024

Should New Hampshire government do more to address climate change?

"I would need specifics on which policies we are discussing here. I am certainly open to ideas on how to preserve the environment like protecting public parks, maintaining individual's ability to use technologies like solar panels, etc."

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2024

Do you support giving voters who register without ID on Election Day a ballot that only counts if they return identifying documents to the state before a deadline?

"For"

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2024

Should the state increase funding for child care providers?

"I'm not sure if you're referring to daycare programs like those through the local agencies or if you mean raising rates or salaries for day care providers. Local agencies do offer robust programs to support employment and those programs should remain in place."

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2024

Should New Hampshire raise the minimum wage?

"Many higher than minimum wage hourly rates. Demand itself has changed conditions."

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2024

Should New Hampshire add legal protections for residents of other states who travel here for health care related to abortion or gender transition?

"Any attempt to harm or punish someone for traveling interstate for any reason would be a violation of the Constitution. The Supreme Court has affirmed this. I am not aware of any cases where such action has been taken."

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2024

Should NH require local law enforcement to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement?

"For"

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2022

Should New Hampshire ban discussions about sexual orientation and gender identity in grades K-3?

"For"

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2022

Do you support the state law that bans teaching certain concepts, such as the idea that people may be "inherently racist, sexist, or oppressive, whether consciously or unconsciously"?

"We need to address root causes of bullying and extend equally opportunities to all, however, many behaviors listed above are not genetic."

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2022

Should New Hampshire add a tax credit for businesses that contribute to student loan repayment for employees?

"If they wish to do so, they should have that ability."

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2022

Should New Hampshire add a fee or mileage charge for electric vehicle owners to help pay for transportation and/or electric infrastructure?

"THese vehicle owners will pay quite a bit in charges for electricity."

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2022

Should New Hampshire extend the renewable portfolio standard past 2025, requiring public utilities to obtain more than 25% of electricity from renewable energy sources?

"This is already being discussed as well. PUC will likely do this on their own without a mandate."

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2022

Do you support the option of mail-in ballots for all voters, not just absentees?

"Against"

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2022

Should the state permanently increase how much tax revenue it shares with towns and cities every year, beyond public school funding?

"Against"

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2022

Do you support the gradual phase-out of the Interests and Dividends tax?

"For"

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2020

Should New Hampshire ban abortion after 24 weeks gestation, with exceptions for cases of rape/incest and health complications?

"Against"

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2020

Should New Hampshire increase the tax on cigarettes?

"Against"

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2020

Should New Hampshire add restrictions to the governor's powers during a state of emergency?

"If this is necessary, then yes. Process, in some instances has become a barrier and that should not be so."

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2020

Should New Hampshire increase public access to reports of police misconduct?

"Our government should be as transparent as possible."

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2020

Should NH legalize the recreational use of marijuana?

"Against"

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2020

Should New Hampshire increase the size of solar panel installations that may participate in net energy metering?

"If it doesn't negatively impact ratepayers, I would consider."

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2020

Should New Hampshire increase subsidies and tax credits for business investment?

"Many companies are requesting abatements because of COVID closures. If they receive those abatements, this might not be necessary. We also have to respect homeowners and make sure their burden is not so great that they can no longer afford their homes. There has to be balance."

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2020

Should New Hampshire increase the base amount of per-pupil funding it provides to local school districts?

"This has been increased in recent years and I think the state is still dealing with managing the Claremont decision. I would have to see the actual plan being proposed."

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2020

Do you support Gov. Sununu's proposal to allow employers and employees to opt-in to a private, paid family and medical leave insurance plan, based on a pool of state employees, excluding coverage for personal illness?

"If this excludes personal illness, I have to ask what this would cover? I know parents can use this for IEP meetings but that would be a few hours a year. How much would this cost?"

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2020

Should New Hampshire continue to participate in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, which requires utilities to purchase allowances for every ton of carbon they emit?

"Possibly if it is not too costly."

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2020

Should New Hampshire create a road usage fee?

"Against"

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2020

Should New Hampshire create a statewide family and medical leave program, paid for with a percentage of employee wages, with no opt-out?

"People should have the opportunity to choose what they want as far as their plan. Some may not want to pay for this coverage. A lot gets taken out of a weekly paycheck as it is. Many companies also over this as part of their internal disability programs."

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2020

Should New Hampshire provide student loan debt repayment programs for workers in industries with labor shortages?

"For"

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2020

Should New Hampshire add tax incentives for affordable housing development?

"This does not seem to work out as intended as the developers often don't have this work as planned. It may not be something that can be regulated."

Citizens Count Issue Survey, 2020

Should New Hampshire allocate tax revenues for private and home schooling costs?

"The large institutional environment of public schools does not work for all students. There have also been cases of severe bullying which have not been able to be managed. We have to make sure we are giving students an environment where they can learn and become productive, tax paying citizens in the future."