CONCORD - Last week Gov. John Lynch announced that he would allow state budget bills to become law without his signature, including a 10-cent reduction in the tobacco tax.

The New England Convenience Store Association (NECSA) applauded the new law, calling it a huge victory for its New Hampshire Chapter.

During debate, NECSA was the only association to have members testify in favor of the tax reduction at both state House and Senate hearings. Additionally, NECSA€™s N.H. Chapter has testified for more than eight years with NECSA€™s staff against tobacco tax increases. Last week€™s victory is due in part and built upon the credible testimony and facts that NECSA staff and members have provided the state Legislature over the years.