CONCORD - CQ Press today named New Hampshire the “Safest State” in the nation for 2008.

New Hampshire boasts the nation’s lowest murder rate and second-lowest rates for aggravated assault and burglary, according to CQ Press.

“New Hampshire has long been one of the safest states in the nation, and our low crime rate is part of what makes this such a great place to live and work. As a state, we are routinely recognized as a national leader and I can think of no better category to lead the nation than in the safety of our citizens,” Gov. John Lynch said. “With this recognition, we should take time to thank the hard-working men and women of New Hampshire law enforcement who help keep us all safe.”

Formerly published by Morgan Quitno Press, Crime State Rankings and the Safest and Most Dangerous State Awards are now published annually by Washington, D.C.-based CQ Press, the reference and textbook-publishing division of Congressional Quarterly.

Gov. Lynch has made public safety a priority since becoming Governor. In 2006, Gov. Lynch worked with the Attorney General, police chiefs from across New Hampshire and lawmakers to better protect children by passing one of the toughest sexual predator laws in the country; increased the state police; and increased the number of state prosecutors.

“A fundamental duty of state government is to keep its citizens safe and as Governor, I am committed to ensuring we remain one of the safest states in the nation. I am proud that New Hampshire has received this prestigious honor and that all of our hard work has been recognized,” Gov. Lynch said.