Fee increase against domestic violence

This week the New Hampshire Senate approved a $5 increase for the marriage license fee, earmarked for the state's domestic violence prevention fund.

Supporters of the fee increase note that New Hampshire's domestic violence shelters had to turn away 1,130 adults last year due to overcrowding.

Additionally, roughly half of homicides in New Hampshire are related to domestic violence.

Bill opponents argue that while the goal is laudable, New Hampshire may end up "raiding" the funds dedicated to domestic violence to balance the state budget; that would make the $5 marriage license fee increase little more than a hidden tax on newlyweds.

Others argue that New Hampshire should use the state's general fund to support domestic violence shelters.