(TRENTON) – Legislation Assembly Speaker Pro Tempore Jerry Green and Assemblymen Jack Conners and Herb Conaway, M.D. sponsored to bar those convicted of crimes from serving on school boards and requiring board members to undergo criminal checks has been signed into law.
“If we prohibit someone from teaching in a classroom because of past convictions, then they definitely should be prohibited from presiding over the education of an entire school district,” said Green (D-Union/Middlesex/Somerset). “It’s a common sense change that is long overdue.”
Under the law (A-444), any person elected or appointed to a board of education will be disqualified from serving if they have been convicted of any crime that, under existing law, will disqualify them from being employed in a public school.
The bill signed by the governor is a slightly revised version of one that passed the Legislature in February but was conditionally vetoed by the governor. The conditional veto added language barring people convicted of bias intimidation and any fourth degree crime involving a child.
“People guilty of serious crimes should not be the ones to decide the educational future of our children,” said Conners (D-Camden/Burlington). “Our students deserve an education system that is supported by the integrity of its members.”
“A good education is the foundation upon which our lives our built,” said Conaway (D-Burlington/Camden). “We owe it to both students and parents to only have the most qualified individuals presiding over the education future of our children.”
The law also would require each member of a board of education to undergo a criminal history background check within 30 days of being elected or appointed.
The cost of the criminal background check will be the responsibility of the school board member, but unexpended campaign funds may be used in the case of an elected member.
Furthermore, it amends the oath of office taken by new board members to include a specific declaration that the member is not disqualified from service due to conviction of one of those crimes.
Any member who falsely swears that he or she is not disqualified would face penalties of up to 18 months in prison and $10,000 in fines.
The crimes included under the law include any crime of the first or second degree; an offense involving the manufacture, transportation, sale, possession, distribution or habitual use of a controlled dangerous substance or "drug paraphernalia; a crime involving the use of force or the threat of force to or upon a person or property including, but not limited to, robbery, aggravated assault, stalking, kidnapping, arson, manslaughter and murder; a third degree crime, or any of the following crimes: recklessly endangering another person; terroristic threats; criminal restraint; luring, enticing child into motor vehicle structure or isolated area; causing or risking widespread injury or damage; criminal mischief; burglary; threats and other improper influence; perjury and false swearing; resisting arrest; any crime of the fourth degree involving a victim who is a minor; or conspiracy to commit or an attempt to commit any of the aforesaid crimes.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Wagner, Conners & Ramos Bill Providing Active Duty Military with Free or Reduced Beach Passes Receives Final Legislative Approval
(Trenton) - Just in time for the unofficial kick-off of summer, legislation sponsored by Assembly Democrats Connie Wagner, Jack Conners and Ruben J. Ramos Jr. is headed to the Governor's desk, which would allow municipalities to offer free or discounted beach badges to military personnel and their families.
"These brave men and women give so much for our state and our country," said Wagner (D-Bergen). "Giving our armed forces one more way to capitalize on their valuable down time is the least we can do to say 'thank you' for their service."
Current law allows towns to offer free or reduced price beach tags for individuals over 65 years of age, disabled residents and children under 12.
The bill (A-2299/S-114) recently received final legislative approval by the General Assembly by a vote of 74-0-1. If signed by the Governor, it would allow municipalities to provide free or reduced fees for access to beach, bathing and recreational grounds for individuals in active military service, their spouses and children over the age of 12 and members of the New Jersey National Guard who have completed Initial Active Duty Training, their spouses and children over 12.
Municipalities choosing to provide free or reduced beach tags for service members would be required to track the number of individuals who qualify for them.
"The families of service men and women don't always have a lot of discretionary spending money, whether it's because they're waiting on back-pay or are experiencing a salary cut due to the transition from civilian to active duty status," said Conners (D-Camden) the chairman of the Assembly Military and Veteran's Affairs Committee and a former Army National Guardsman and Army Reservist.
"Allowing them to take advantage of our beaches at a free or reduced rate will give them one more way to take their minds off of loved ones fighting for our freedoms and interests overseas," said Ramos (D-Hudson).
"These brave men and women give so much for our state and our country," said Wagner (D-Bergen). "Giving our armed forces one more way to capitalize on their valuable down time is the least we can do to say 'thank you' for their service."
Current law allows towns to offer free or reduced price beach tags for individuals over 65 years of age, disabled residents and children under 12.
The bill (A-2299/S-114) recently received final legislative approval by the General Assembly by a vote of 74-0-1. If signed by the Governor, it would allow municipalities to provide free or reduced fees for access to beach, bathing and recreational grounds for individuals in active military service, their spouses and children over the age of 12 and members of the New Jersey National Guard who have completed Initial Active Duty Training, their spouses and children over 12.
Municipalities choosing to provide free or reduced beach tags for service members would be required to track the number of individuals who qualify for them.
"The families of service men and women don't always have a lot of discretionary spending money, whether it's because they're waiting on back-pay or are experiencing a salary cut due to the transition from civilian to active duty status," said Conners (D-Camden) the chairman of the Assembly Military and Veteran's Affairs Committee and a former Army National Guardsman and Army Reservist.
"Allowing them to take advantage of our beaches at a free or reduced rate will give them one more way to take their minds off of loved ones fighting for our freedoms and interests overseas," said Ramos (D-Hudson).
Quijano & Spencer Two of Only 50 Legislators Nationwide Selected for Prestigious Leadership Program
(Union) - Assemblywomen Annette Quijano and L. Grace Spencer have been selected as two of only 50 legislators from across the nation to participate in the State Legislative Leaders Foundation's 2011 Emerging Leaders Program to be held in July at The University of Virginia's renowned Darden Graduate School of Business Administration.
The Emerging Leaders Program is designed for those men and women who are judged by their peers to be likely future leaders in their state. Quijano and Spencer were nominated for the program by Assembly Speaker Sheila Oliver.
"This is a tremendous honor, one I am wholeheartedly looking forward to," said Quijano (D-Union). "I am extremely honored that Speaker Oliver felt compelled to nominate me for this prestigious program. I look forward to taking the skills and knowledge gained through this experience back to Trenton to continue working to create a better New Jersey for all our residents."
"I am humbled by Speaker Oliver's confidence in my leadership potential," said Spencer. "This will be a tremendous opportunity to explore new pathways into effective public service. I welcome any opportunity that will create a stronger foundation for me to represent my constituents."
The goal of the Emerging Leaders Program is to inspire men and women to continue their careers in public service.
For three days, participants will convene for a series of intense and often provocative discussions led by distinguished faculty from the University of Virginia's Darden School. During the program, Quijano, Spencer, and others will have numerous opportunities to measure their expertise and knowledge against some of the most successful political and business leaders in the nation.
The State Legislative Leaders Foundation, a national, independent, nonpartisan, nonprofit will provide a full scholarship to the program for each participating legislator.
The Emerging Leaders Program is designed for those men and women who are judged by their peers to be likely future leaders in their state. Quijano and Spencer were nominated for the program by Assembly Speaker Sheila Oliver.
"This is a tremendous honor, one I am wholeheartedly looking forward to," said Quijano (D-Union). "I am extremely honored that Speaker Oliver felt compelled to nominate me for this prestigious program. I look forward to taking the skills and knowledge gained through this experience back to Trenton to continue working to create a better New Jersey for all our residents."
"I am humbled by Speaker Oliver's confidence in my leadership potential," said Spencer. "This will be a tremendous opportunity to explore new pathways into effective public service. I welcome any opportunity that will create a stronger foundation for me to represent my constituents."
The goal of the Emerging Leaders Program is to inspire men and women to continue their careers in public service.
For three days, participants will convene for a series of intense and often provocative discussions led by distinguished faculty from the University of Virginia's Darden School. During the program, Quijano, Spencer, and others will have numerous opportunities to measure their expertise and knowledge against some of the most successful political and business leaders in the nation.
The State Legislative Leaders Foundation, a national, independent, nonpartisan, nonprofit will provide a full scholarship to the program for each participating legislator.
DeAngelo & Barnes Bill Aims to Ensure Unemployed New Jerseyans Understand & Obtain Jobless Their Benefits
(Trenton) - Legislation sponsored by Assembly Democrats Wayne DeAngelo and Peter J. Barnes III to ensure unemployed New Jerseyans can understand and obtain their jobless benefits continues advancing toward law.
The bill (A-3794) requires that the benefit instructions provided by each employer to a worker at the time the worker becomes unemployed include information on the time sensitivity of filing a claim for unemployment benefits.
"We must take advantage of every opportunity we can to keep out-of-work New Jerseyans afloat while the economy rebounds," said DeAngelo (D-Mercer/Middlesex). "We cannot turn our backs on a simple step like this and we must ensure workers who suddenly find themselves unemployed understand the basics of filing for vital assistance."
"Ensuring a worker who finds themselves turning to unemployment benefits understands the importance of a timely benefits filing is commonsense," said Barnes (D-Middlesex). "In these tough economic times, we don't want to see anyone lose benefits because rules were unclear."
The bill was recently approved 76-0 by the Assembly and 39-0 by the Senate. It now goes to the governor.
The bill (A-3794) requires that the benefit instructions provided by each employer to a worker at the time the worker becomes unemployed include information on the time sensitivity of filing a claim for unemployment benefits.
"We must take advantage of every opportunity we can to keep out-of-work New Jerseyans afloat while the economy rebounds," said DeAngelo (D-Mercer/Middlesex). "We cannot turn our backs on a simple step like this and we must ensure workers who suddenly find themselves unemployed understand the basics of filing for vital assistance."
"Ensuring a worker who finds themselves turning to unemployment benefits understands the importance of a timely benefits filing is commonsense," said Barnes (D-Middlesex). "In these tough economic times, we don't want to see anyone lose benefits because rules were unclear."
The bill was recently approved 76-0 by the Assembly and 39-0 by the Senate. It now goes to the governor.
Milam Bill to Provide Tax Break for Workers Clears Legislature
(Trenton) - Legislation sponsored by Assemblyman Matthew Milam to provide a tax break to New Jersey workers was approved Monday by the Senate, giving it final legislative approval.
The bill (A-3792) gives the state authority to lower temporary disability benefit contribution rates by employees commencing in 2012. It was approved 51-23-2 by the Assembly on May 9 and 31-7 by the Senate on Monday. It now goes to the governor.
"Giving the state authority to annually adjust the disability benefits rate will prevent excessive accumulations that have sometimes resulted in the diversion of significant amounts of monies from the fund for another use," Milam said. "If, as has occurred during most years, total contributions paid into the fund substantially exceed total benefits paid out of it, this bill would cause a reduction in tax rates for workers."
Under the Milam bill, the annual adjustments in the contribution rate are designed to prevent excessive accumulations in the state disability benefits fund.
In past years, large surpluses in the fund have sometimes resulted in the diversion of significant amounts of monies from the fund to the general state budget.
Since 1994, $748 million has been diverted from the fund, with the most recent diversion occurring in the current fiscal year.
If, as has occurred during most years, total contributions paid into the fund substantially exceed total benefits paid out of the fund, the provisions of this bill would cause a reduction in tax rate for workers.
Milam said he will be introducing legislation to form a task force to find a way to provide a similar tax break to New Jersey businesses.
"When this fund has surplus money, everyone should benefit," Milam said.
The bill (A-3792) gives the state authority to lower temporary disability benefit contribution rates by employees commencing in 2012. It was approved 51-23-2 by the Assembly on May 9 and 31-7 by the Senate on Monday. It now goes to the governor.
"Giving the state authority to annually adjust the disability benefits rate will prevent excessive accumulations that have sometimes resulted in the diversion of significant amounts of monies from the fund for another use," Milam said. "If, as has occurred during most years, total contributions paid into the fund substantially exceed total benefits paid out of it, this bill would cause a reduction in tax rates for workers."
Under the Milam bill, the annual adjustments in the contribution rate are designed to prevent excessive accumulations in the state disability benefits fund.
In past years, large surpluses in the fund have sometimes resulted in the diversion of significant amounts of monies from the fund to the general state budget.
Since 1994, $748 million has been diverted from the fund, with the most recent diversion occurring in the current fiscal year.
If, as has occurred during most years, total contributions paid into the fund substantially exceed total benefits paid out of the fund, the provisions of this bill would cause a reduction in tax rate for workers.
Milam said he will be introducing legislation to form a task force to find a way to provide a similar tax break to New Jersey businesses.
"When this fund has surplus money, everyone should benefit," Milam said.
Greenwald: Governor's Plan to Cut Health Care Unrealistic & Costly
(Trenton) - Assembly Budget Chairman Lou Greenwald (D-Camden) released the following statement Tuesday after the committee held a hearing on the Christie administration's plan to slash health care for New Jersey's poorest and most medically needy residents:
"The testimony we heard today made clear that this is an unrealistic and fiscally irresponsible plan that would cost taxpayers more money and do nothing to improve health care in this state.
"If New Jersey's least fortunate residents are no longer eligible for Medicaid, these costs will simply end up somewhere else in the system in more costly ways.
"Residents without health insurance will use more expensive emergency rooms. The charity system and fragile hospitals could be overwhelmed. Health clinics are already bearing too high a load because of the governor's other health care cuts.
"Finally, residents now denied Medicaid coverage are, sadly, likely to ignore health problems that if caught early would be treatable for a relative small amount of money. If the illness progresses, it will be much more costly to treat than had it been caught early.
"Any alleged savings will disappear quickly and then some.
"New Jersey taxpayers cannot afford more Christie policies that push the heaviest burden onto the working class and poor. The governor needs to reconsider his approach and work cooperatively with us to devise a new plan that actually makes sense and saves money."
"The testimony we heard today made clear that this is an unrealistic and fiscally irresponsible plan that would cost taxpayers more money and do nothing to improve health care in this state.
"If New Jersey's least fortunate residents are no longer eligible for Medicaid, these costs will simply end up somewhere else in the system in more costly ways.
"Residents without health insurance will use more expensive emergency rooms. The charity system and fragile hospitals could be overwhelmed. Health clinics are already bearing too high a load because of the governor's other health care cuts.
"Finally, residents now denied Medicaid coverage are, sadly, likely to ignore health problems that if caught early would be treatable for a relative small amount of money. If the illness progresses, it will be much more costly to treat than had it been caught early.
"Any alleged savings will disappear quickly and then some.
"New Jersey taxpayers cannot afford more Christie policies that push the heaviest burden onto the working class and poor. The governor needs to reconsider his approach and work cooperatively with us to devise a new plan that actually makes sense and saves money."
Friday, May 27, 2011
Jasey Hails Progress of 2009 "Traders to Teachers" Act Designed to Address Math and Science Teacher Shortages
Successful Pilot Program Has Increased Number of Physics Teachers by Over 400%
(Trenton) - Assemblywoman Mila Jasey called a hearing of the Joint Committee on the Public Schools on Thursday to track the progress that has been made on a law commonly known as the "Traders to Teachers Act" that she sponsored two years ago.
After listening to testimony, Jasey, who chaired the hearing, praised the results that have come out of this legislation, which was designed to help fast track the training of unemployed Wall Street traders and pharmaceutical employees to fill teacher shortages in the areas of math and science.
"This law has produced demonstrable results in filling some of our most pressing gaps in education," said Jasey (D-Essex). "It truly is a win-win. This legislation has helped us meet critical education needs to better prepare our students to compete in the new global economy, while also helping those hit hard by the recession to find a productive means of employment."
During the hearing presentations were given by Dr. Robert Goodman and Dr. Rosemary Knab from the NJ Center for Teaching and Learning (NJCTL), a program funded and run by the New Jersey Education Association (NJEA), which has worked in partnership with Kean University on the Progressive Science Initiative (PSI), the pilot program that was born out of Jasey's legislation.
NJCTL also used the tools in the legislation to provide training to give other content teachers the expertise to teach physics. In the near future, the program will be replicated to train mathematics teachers to address this critical shortage as well.
"If it wasn't for Assemblywoman Jasey's leadership, we would not have been able to use the Trader to Teacher Act to ramp up the PSI to address the shortage of science teachers," said Dr. Knab.
Knab also noted that the program has now been replicated in other states and around the world.
Dr. Susan Polirstok, Dean of Kean University's College of Education, also spoke at the hearing and highlighted the fact that the PSI initiative has helped increase the creation of physics teachers in New Jersey by an astounding 438 percent in the last two years.
Polirstok noted that in the eight years prior to the creation of PSI, all of the colleges and universities in New Jersey produced a combined average of 8 physics teachers per year. However, in the two years since NJCTL and Kean University came together to work on PSI, the program has produced 70 physics teachers and 25 chemistry teachers. All told, the program will have impacted 20,000 New Jersey high school students by next year.
(Trenton) - Assemblywoman Mila Jasey called a hearing of the Joint Committee on the Public Schools on Thursday to track the progress that has been made on a law commonly known as the "Traders to Teachers Act" that she sponsored two years ago.
After listening to testimony, Jasey, who chaired the hearing, praised the results that have come out of this legislation, which was designed to help fast track the training of unemployed Wall Street traders and pharmaceutical employees to fill teacher shortages in the areas of math and science.
"This law has produced demonstrable results in filling some of our most pressing gaps in education," said Jasey (D-Essex). "It truly is a win-win. This legislation has helped us meet critical education needs to better prepare our students to compete in the new global economy, while also helping those hit hard by the recession to find a productive means of employment."
During the hearing presentations were given by Dr. Robert Goodman and Dr. Rosemary Knab from the NJ Center for Teaching and Learning (NJCTL), a program funded and run by the New Jersey Education Association (NJEA), which has worked in partnership with Kean University on the Progressive Science Initiative (PSI), the pilot program that was born out of Jasey's legislation.
NJCTL also used the tools in the legislation to provide training to give other content teachers the expertise to teach physics. In the near future, the program will be replicated to train mathematics teachers to address this critical shortage as well.
"If it wasn't for Assemblywoman Jasey's leadership, we would not have been able to use the Trader to Teacher Act to ramp up the PSI to address the shortage of science teachers," said Dr. Knab.
Knab also noted that the program has now been replicated in other states and around the world.
Dr. Susan Polirstok, Dean of Kean University's College of Education, also spoke at the hearing and highlighted the fact that the PSI initiative has helped increase the creation of physics teachers in New Jersey by an astounding 438 percent in the last two years.
Polirstok noted that in the eight years prior to the creation of PSI, all of the colleges and universities in New Jersey produced a combined average of 8 physics teachers per year. However, in the two years since NJCTL and Kean University came together to work on PSI, the program has produced 70 physics teachers and 25 chemistry teachers. All told, the program will have impacted 20,000 New Jersey high school students by next year.
Court Orders New Jersey to Increase Aid to Schools
The New York Times
By Richard Perez-Pena and Winnie Hu
The New Jersey Supreme Court ruled on Tuesday that a major piece of Gov. Chris Christie’s cost-cutting was unconstitutional and ordered lawmakers to raise spending for poor, urban schools by $500 million next year, despite a state budget shortfall estimated at $10 billion.
The decision is a new milestone in the intertwined disputes over school financing, taxation and the role of the courts that have roiled the state’s politics since the 1970s. And those disputes remain; the ruling intensifies Mr. Christie’s running battles with the Supreme Court and the Legislature, and it will resonate with state workers and rescue the government employee pension plans.
The majority in the 3-to-2 decision accused the state of willfully violating previous Supreme Court orders in the long-running school-aid case under review.
“Like anyone else, the state is not free to walk away from judicial orders enforcing constitutional obligations,” Justice Jaynee LaVecchia wrote in the ruling. She added that “the state made a conscious and calculated decision” to renege on the commitment it made two years ago, the last time the case, Abbott v. Burke, went before the court.
In response, Mr. Christie again cited school financing as the chief example of a liberal court run amok, which he vowed to remedy by choosing more conservative justices. Answering questions at a public forum in Cherry Hill, N.J., he said. “I’m going to appoint people who I believe understand their job, which is to interpret the law and not make law from the bench.”
Earlier, in a news conference at the State House, the governor said, “I believe that this decision represents everything that’s wrong with how Trenton has historically operated and everything that I’m here to fight to change.” He said the Supreme Court “should not be dictating how taxpayer dollars are spent and prioritizing certain programs over others.”
With the additional aid ordered by the court was far less than the $1.7 billion requested by some schools advocates, it was still a blow to a governor who has made a national name for himself by cutting spending and assailing perquisites and benefits for public employees, particularly teachers. He has accused the teachers’ union, the New Jersey Education Association, and the courts of promoting the view that more money equals better schools, a position he says has been discredited by decades of failure.
Jon S. Corzine, the Democrat who preceded Mr. Christie as governor, used a one-time infusion of federal stimulus money to increase school spending, even as the state budget shrank. But as that money ran out, Mr. Christie, a Republican who took office last year, cut more than $1 billion in aid to all 591 of the state’s school districts, out of an overall budget of more than $10 billion.
The decision on Tuesday will have no direct impact on most of those districts. Instead, the court order increased aid for only the 31 low-income, urban districts that have long been the subject of the Abbott case. The case, a lawsuit first filed in 1981, has resulted in a series of Supreme Court rulings that have forced the state to funnel billions of dollars into those districts, in cities like Camden, Elizabeth, Jersey City, Newark, Passaic, Paterson, Trenton and Union City.
Mr. Christie said he would comply with the latest ruling, though he had previously suggested that he might ignore such an order. He challenged the Democrats who control the Legislature to figure out where to get the money and ruled out a tax increase to pay for the spending.
Traditionally, the governor and the Legislature spend much of June hammering out a state budget, which is supposed to be adopted by the end of the month.
David Sciarra, executive director of the Education Law Center, the plaintiff in the Abbott case, said, “Neither the governor nor the Legislature should walk away from this at this critical point in time.” He said the need remained “to remedy the harmful impact” of aid cuts on children who were not in the so-called Abbott districts.
Stephen M. Sweeney, the State Senate president, said the governor “was well aware that his draconian cuts to education were illegal,” and noted that in his 2009 campaign, Mr. Christie vowed not to cut school financing.
Some lawmakers pointed out that state revenues were running about projections by an amount close to the $500 million mandated by the court, an amount roughly equal to the sum that would be raised by reinstating the so-called millionaire’s tax on the highest incomes, which expired at the end of 2009.
But last year, Mr. Christie vetoed an effort to revive that tax, and this year, as the sate’s fiscal crisis eases and every legislative seat is up for election, there appears to be less appetite for raising the issue again.
In practice, most communities pay for their schools primarily with local taxes, not money from Trenton. But according to the State Constitution, the Legislature has the duty to “provide for the maintenance and support of a thorough and efficient system of free public schools.”
The Supreme Court found, in Robinson v. Cahill in 1973, that the state had violated that mandate. The state then adopted its first personal income tax in 1976, to increase school financing.
Abbott, a similar case, followed, producing a string of rulings that said the state still was not living up to its constitutional duty.
Later Abbott rulings required parity between financing for school in poor, urban districts and those in affluent suburbs. Yet those low-income districts continued to lag far behind in achievement.
For years, Democrats and Republicans alike complained that Abbott concentrated too much aid on a few urban districts, when many suburban and rural districts had smaller but still significant numbers of needy children.
In 2008, Governor Corzine and the Legislature enacted a new school funding formula that steered increased aid to 205 of the state’s districts rather than the 31 urban districts only. The Supreme Court ruled that the new system was acceptable as long as the state adhered to specific financing commitments for the Abbott districts.
On Tuesday, the Court found that the state’s budget-cutting “amounts to nothing less than a reneging on the representations it made.”
But the 3-to-2 decision, and the other opinions that were issued, reveal a deeply divided court. One justice, Barry T. Albin, joined in the majority ruling, but also wrote a separate opinion stating that he would have required the state to stick to the 2008 formula for the 205 districts, which would have roughly doubled the ruling’s cost to the state.
Chief Justice Stuart J. Rabner, a former aide to Governor Corzine, recused himself from the case, as did Justice Virginia Long.
The two dissenting justices, Helen E. Hoens and Roberto A. Rivera-Soto, challenged the legality of the ruling, saying significant decisions required the support of four justices no matter how many were present.
By Richard Perez-Pena and Winnie Hu
The New Jersey Supreme Court ruled on Tuesday that a major piece of Gov. Chris Christie’s cost-cutting was unconstitutional and ordered lawmakers to raise spending for poor, urban schools by $500 million next year, despite a state budget shortfall estimated at $10 billion.
The decision is a new milestone in the intertwined disputes over school financing, taxation and the role of the courts that have roiled the state’s politics since the 1970s. And those disputes remain; the ruling intensifies Mr. Christie’s running battles with the Supreme Court and the Legislature, and it will resonate with state workers and rescue the government employee pension plans.
The majority in the 3-to-2 decision accused the state of willfully violating previous Supreme Court orders in the long-running school-aid case under review.
“Like anyone else, the state is not free to walk away from judicial orders enforcing constitutional obligations,” Justice Jaynee LaVecchia wrote in the ruling. She added that “the state made a conscious and calculated decision” to renege on the commitment it made two years ago, the last time the case, Abbott v. Burke, went before the court.
In response, Mr. Christie again cited school financing as the chief example of a liberal court run amok, which he vowed to remedy by choosing more conservative justices. Answering questions at a public forum in Cherry Hill, N.J., he said. “I’m going to appoint people who I believe understand their job, which is to interpret the law and not make law from the bench.”
Earlier, in a news conference at the State House, the governor said, “I believe that this decision represents everything that’s wrong with how Trenton has historically operated and everything that I’m here to fight to change.” He said the Supreme Court “should not be dictating how taxpayer dollars are spent and prioritizing certain programs over others.”
With the additional aid ordered by the court was far less than the $1.7 billion requested by some schools advocates, it was still a blow to a governor who has made a national name for himself by cutting spending and assailing perquisites and benefits for public employees, particularly teachers. He has accused the teachers’ union, the New Jersey Education Association, and the courts of promoting the view that more money equals better schools, a position he says has been discredited by decades of failure.
Jon S. Corzine, the Democrat who preceded Mr. Christie as governor, used a one-time infusion of federal stimulus money to increase school spending, even as the state budget shrank. But as that money ran out, Mr. Christie, a Republican who took office last year, cut more than $1 billion in aid to all 591 of the state’s school districts, out of an overall budget of more than $10 billion.
The decision on Tuesday will have no direct impact on most of those districts. Instead, the court order increased aid for only the 31 low-income, urban districts that have long been the subject of the Abbott case. The case, a lawsuit first filed in 1981, has resulted in a series of Supreme Court rulings that have forced the state to funnel billions of dollars into those districts, in cities like Camden, Elizabeth, Jersey City, Newark, Passaic, Paterson, Trenton and Union City.
Mr. Christie said he would comply with the latest ruling, though he had previously suggested that he might ignore such an order. He challenged the Democrats who control the Legislature to figure out where to get the money and ruled out a tax increase to pay for the spending.
Traditionally, the governor and the Legislature spend much of June hammering out a state budget, which is supposed to be adopted by the end of the month.
David Sciarra, executive director of the Education Law Center, the plaintiff in the Abbott case, said, “Neither the governor nor the Legislature should walk away from this at this critical point in time.” He said the need remained “to remedy the harmful impact” of aid cuts on children who were not in the so-called Abbott districts.
Stephen M. Sweeney, the State Senate president, said the governor “was well aware that his draconian cuts to education were illegal,” and noted that in his 2009 campaign, Mr. Christie vowed not to cut school financing.
Some lawmakers pointed out that state revenues were running about projections by an amount close to the $500 million mandated by the court, an amount roughly equal to the sum that would be raised by reinstating the so-called millionaire’s tax on the highest incomes, which expired at the end of 2009.
But last year, Mr. Christie vetoed an effort to revive that tax, and this year, as the sate’s fiscal crisis eases and every legislative seat is up for election, there appears to be less appetite for raising the issue again.
In practice, most communities pay for their schools primarily with local taxes, not money from Trenton. But according to the State Constitution, the Legislature has the duty to “provide for the maintenance and support of a thorough and efficient system of free public schools.”
The Supreme Court found, in Robinson v. Cahill in 1973, that the state had violated that mandate. The state then adopted its first personal income tax in 1976, to increase school financing.
Abbott, a similar case, followed, producing a string of rulings that said the state still was not living up to its constitutional duty.
Later Abbott rulings required parity between financing for school in poor, urban districts and those in affluent suburbs. Yet those low-income districts continued to lag far behind in achievement.
For years, Democrats and Republicans alike complained that Abbott concentrated too much aid on a few urban districts, when many suburban and rural districts had smaller but still significant numbers of needy children.
In 2008, Governor Corzine and the Legislature enacted a new school funding formula that steered increased aid to 205 of the state’s districts rather than the 31 urban districts only. The Supreme Court ruled that the new system was acceptable as long as the state adhered to specific financing commitments for the Abbott districts.
On Tuesday, the Court found that the state’s budget-cutting “amounts to nothing less than a reneging on the representations it made.”
But the 3-to-2 decision, and the other opinions that were issued, reveal a deeply divided court. One justice, Barry T. Albin, joined in the majority ruling, but also wrote a separate opinion stating that he would have required the state to stick to the 2008 formula for the 205 districts, which would have roughly doubled the ruling’s cost to the state.
Chief Justice Stuart J. Rabner, a former aide to Governor Corzine, recused himself from the case, as did Justice Virginia Long.
The two dissenting justices, Helen E. Hoens and Roberto A. Rivera-Soto, challenged the legality of the ruling, saying significant decisions required the support of four justices no matter how many were present.
Speaker Oliver Statement on Shooting Death of Newark Police Officer
(Trenton) - Assembly Speaker Sheila Y. Oliver (D-Essex/Passaic) released the following statement Friday mourning the loss of a Newark police officer who was shot while off-duty ordering a slice of pizza:
"I was deeply saddened and troubled to hear of the tragic death of one of New Jersey's finest in Newark.
"We mourn the passing of another one of our everyday heroes.
"On behalf of the New Jersey General Assembly, I send my deepest sympathies to the officer's family and friends and to the city of Newark. Our thoughts and prayers are with them."
"Our police officers put their lives on the line all hours of the day and night, whether on-duty or off-duty; and their devotion to ensuring our public safety must never be forgotten. We can never take their efforts for granted. We can never forget their dedication."
"This continued violence on our streets should be of deep concern for all New Jersey residents. It is tragic and unnecessary. We will not overcome it unless we all work together to demand its end. That should be our common goal."
"I was deeply saddened and troubled to hear of the tragic death of one of New Jersey's finest in Newark.
"We mourn the passing of another one of our everyday heroes.
"On behalf of the New Jersey General Assembly, I send my deepest sympathies to the officer's family and friends and to the city of Newark. Our thoughts and prayers are with them."
"Our police officers put their lives on the line all hours of the day and night, whether on-duty or off-duty; and their devotion to ensuring our public safety must never be forgotten. We can never take their efforts for granted. We can never forget their dedication."
"This continued violence on our streets should be of deep concern for all New Jersey residents. It is tragic and unnecessary. We will not overcome it unless we all work together to demand its end. That should be our common goal."
Caputo: Bergen County Casinos Could Help Resolve State Fiscal Woes
(28th Legislative District) - Assemblyman Ralph Caputo on Thursday said legislation he's introduced to ask voters to approve allowing casinos in Bergen County could go a long way toward helping boost state funding for schools and pensions.
Caputo's bill (ACR-169) would ask voters to amend the state constitution to allow the Legislature to enact laws permitting the establishment and operation of casinos in Bergen County. The casinos would be under state regulation.
"We need to be cognizant of every means possible to raise revenue to help ease our budget crunch while providing essential services for working class New Jerseyans, and this is one option that could prove very, very helpful," said Caputo (D-Essex). "Schools and legally mandated pension obligations are certainly essential services, and revenue collected by the state from Bergen County casinos could prove key to ensuring they're properly funded. It's not a complete solution, nor is it an immediate solution, but it should be part of our long-term plan to provide funding for all New Jersey schools, keep New Jersey competitive on gaming and to benefit taxpayers."
The Legislature would have the authority to prescribe the types of games permitted at the Bergen County establishments, provide for licensing and taxing of casino operations and equipment and specify the use of the state's revenues resulting from this casino gambling.
If approved by the people at the 2011 general election, casinos could come to Bergen County as early as 2013.
"This makes sense on many levels," Caputo said. "It will create jobs, spark economic development, fit with our ongoing Meadowlands redevelopment efforts, help keep New Jersey as a vital gaming destination and provide an alternative to property taxes for crucial services such as schools. It would represent great progress for our state."
Caputo's bill (ACR-169) would ask voters to amend the state constitution to allow the Legislature to enact laws permitting the establishment and operation of casinos in Bergen County. The casinos would be under state regulation.
"We need to be cognizant of every means possible to raise revenue to help ease our budget crunch while providing essential services for working class New Jerseyans, and this is one option that could prove very, very helpful," said Caputo (D-Essex). "Schools and legally mandated pension obligations are certainly essential services, and revenue collected by the state from Bergen County casinos could prove key to ensuring they're properly funded. It's not a complete solution, nor is it an immediate solution, but it should be part of our long-term plan to provide funding for all New Jersey schools, keep New Jersey competitive on gaming and to benefit taxpayers."
The Legislature would have the authority to prescribe the types of games permitted at the Bergen County establishments, provide for licensing and taxing of casino operations and equipment and specify the use of the state's revenues resulting from this casino gambling.
If approved by the people at the 2011 general election, casinos could come to Bergen County as early as 2013.
"This makes sense on many levels," Caputo said. "It will create jobs, spark economic development, fit with our ongoing Meadowlands redevelopment efforts, help keep New Jersey as a vital gaming destination and provide an alternative to property taxes for crucial services such as schools. It would represent great progress for our state."
Barnes on RGGI Withdrawal: Governor Has Single-Handedly Set Us Back Decades
(Trenton) – Assemblyman Peter Barnes III released the following statement today after Governor Christie announced his misguided decision to withdraw New Jersey from the landmark, 10-state, Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative:
“With this decision today, this Governor has single-handedly set us back decades.
“RGGI was a momentous step towards reversing climate change by encouraging lower carbon dioxide emissions and alternative energy use. Not only would this have helped curb our over-reliance on fossil fuels and ease the acceleration of climate change, but it would eventually have helped us remove many of our troops from the Middle East.
“With Congress dragging its feet on this issue, now is the time for states to step up to the plate. Instead, the Governor has ignored his responsibility to the people of this state, punting yet another issue to someone else, and once again, demonstrating a lack of leadership.
“This is a sad day for New Jersey, our region, and our country as a whole, not to mention the world at large.”
“With this decision today, this Governor has single-handedly set us back decades.
“RGGI was a momentous step towards reversing climate change by encouraging lower carbon dioxide emissions and alternative energy use. Not only would this have helped curb our over-reliance on fossil fuels and ease the acceleration of climate change, but it would eventually have helped us remove many of our troops from the Middle East.
“With Congress dragging its feet on this issue, now is the time for states to step up to the plate. Instead, the Governor has ignored his responsibility to the people of this state, punting yet another issue to someone else, and once again, demonstrating a lack of leadership.
“This is a sad day for New Jersey, our region, and our country as a whole, not to mention the world at large.”
Thursday, May 26, 2011
N.J. Rental Costs Among Highest in the Nation
Star Ledger / Sarah Portlock
A household in New Jersey must earn at least $51,044 annually - the fifth highest amount in the nation - to be able to afford rent and utilities for a "safe and modest" two-bedroom rental property, according to a study released yesterday.
Statewide, a typical renter earns about $32,905, according to the report, which was released by two housing advocacy groups. The fair market rent for a two-bedroom apartment in New Jersey is $1,276, according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, and the report found New Jersey families are paying much more than the recommended 30 percent of income on housing and utilities.
The most expensive counties are Bergen and Passaic, where renters must earn $59,760 annually, a figure that is up 72 percent since 2000. The least expensive county was Cape May, where workers need to earn $37,960, up 47 percent, the report found.
"This data only emphasizes the need for more affordable home choices in our state," said Diane Sterner, executive director for the Trenton-based Housing and Community Development Network, which released the report with the Washington, D.C.-based National Low Income Housing Coalition. The data is from various federal agencies, including the U.S. Census Bureau and the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Factors like high unemployment, falling wages, and low rental vacancies have contributed to the affordable housing crisis, the report said. Housing stock has shrunk as more people look to rent instead of buy and because many units were upgraded or converted to condos during the boom years.
"How can we expect New Jersey's economy to bounce back when its workforce can't afford to live here?," Sterner asked. "In order to move our economy forward, we need to create homes and jobs in environmentally appropriate places with access to transit."
The increasing costs also affect landlords who face financial and regulatory burdens to manage apartment buildings.
"This report re-emphasizes the need for comprehensive, statewide housing policy reform," said Conor Fennessy, vice president of governmental affairs for the New Jersey Apartment Association. "Because of the extreme regulatory burdens in New Jersey, our state has become an expensive place not just to live and work, but also own and professionally manage multi-family rental housing."
Justin Alvarez knows the renters' burden well. Each month, he pays $620 more than the recommended amount for his $50,000 salary to live in a small studio in Jersey City that he shares with his girlfriend, who is in medical school, plus their dog and cat. The couple considered looking at more affordable units, but the apartment is in the best possible location for their work.
"It's a tight fit, but we get by," he said. "It's always nicer (to have more space), especially when you have guests, but we are trying to save money as opposed to living paycheck to paycheck."
A household in New Jersey must earn at least $51,044 annually - the fifth highest amount in the nation - to be able to afford rent and utilities for a "safe and modest" two-bedroom rental property, according to a study released yesterday.
Statewide, a typical renter earns about $32,905, according to the report, which was released by two housing advocacy groups. The fair market rent for a two-bedroom apartment in New Jersey is $1,276, according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, and the report found New Jersey families are paying much more than the recommended 30 percent of income on housing and utilities.
The most expensive counties are Bergen and Passaic, where renters must earn $59,760 annually, a figure that is up 72 percent since 2000. The least expensive county was Cape May, where workers need to earn $37,960, up 47 percent, the report found.
"This data only emphasizes the need for more affordable home choices in our state," said Diane Sterner, executive director for the Trenton-based Housing and Community Development Network, which released the report with the Washington, D.C.-based National Low Income Housing Coalition. The data is from various federal agencies, including the U.S. Census Bureau and the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Factors like high unemployment, falling wages, and low rental vacancies have contributed to the affordable housing crisis, the report said. Housing stock has shrunk as more people look to rent instead of buy and because many units were upgraded or converted to condos during the boom years.
"How can we expect New Jersey's economy to bounce back when its workforce can't afford to live here?," Sterner asked. "In order to move our economy forward, we need to create homes and jobs in environmentally appropriate places with access to transit."
The increasing costs also affect landlords who face financial and regulatory burdens to manage apartment buildings.
"This report re-emphasizes the need for comprehensive, statewide housing policy reform," said Conor Fennessy, vice president of governmental affairs for the New Jersey Apartment Association. "Because of the extreme regulatory burdens in New Jersey, our state has become an expensive place not just to live and work, but also own and professionally manage multi-family rental housing."
Justin Alvarez knows the renters' burden well. Each month, he pays $620 more than the recommended amount for his $50,000 salary to live in a small studio in Jersey City that he shares with his girlfriend, who is in medical school, plus their dog and cat. The couple considered looking at more affordable units, but the apartment is in the best possible location for their work.
"It's a tight fit, but we get by," he said. "It's always nicer (to have more space), especially when you have guests, but we are trying to save money as opposed to living paycheck to paycheck."
Cryan: Governor's Policies a Proven Failure
(Trenton) - Assembly Majority Leader Joseph Cryan (D-Union) released the following statement Tuesday on the state Supreme Court's school funding order:
"This order makes clear that this governor has failed New Jersey's most at-risk school children with the very same budget policies that delivered the highest property tax increase in four years to New Jersey taxpayers.
"Basically, this governor's philosophy of above all protecting the rich has now been soundly rejected.
"The governor may not want to take up his responsibility to govern, but the Assembly stands ready to lead and provide a plan that not only protects at-risk children, but helps property taxpayers beleaguered by the governor's tax increases."
"This order makes clear that this governor has failed New Jersey's most at-risk school children with the very same budget policies that delivered the highest property tax increase in four years to New Jersey taxpayers.
"Basically, this governor's philosophy of above all protecting the rich has now been soundly rejected.
"The governor may not want to take up his responsibility to govern, but the Assembly stands ready to lead and provide a plan that not only protects at-risk children, but helps property taxpayers beleaguered by the governor's tax increases."
McKeon: Christie Favors Conservative Sound Bites Over Innovation
(Trenton) - Assemblyman John McKeon (D-Essex), chairman of the Assembly Environment and Solid Waste Committee, released the following statement Thursday on Gov. Chris Christie's decision to withdraw New Jersey from the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative:
"Gov. Christie has in one wrong-headed decision decimated New Jersey's clean air and energy advocacy efforts. Sadly, this day will go down in history as the one in which New Jersey ceded its standing as a leader in environmental protection efforts.
"Under this governor, we are now a state that puts right-wing sound bites over innovation. We have gone from being a clean energy and environmental protection innovator to a national laughingstock.
"Quite simply, this decision reeks of a governor desperate to boost his radical conservative credentials to distract from his failing policies. The governor may view this as a win as he is hailed by conservatives, but everyone else is going to lose.
"Our air will be dirtier, especially hurting children and senior citizens.
"The economic development, job creation and consumer benefits we would have built around energy efficiency, renewable energy and green jobs have been lost.
"At the very least, after this decision, no one can argue that this governor favors environmental protection. It would be hilarious that anyone actually thought as much, though there's nothing funny about dirty air and lost jobs."
"Gov. Christie has in one wrong-headed decision decimated New Jersey's clean air and energy advocacy efforts. Sadly, this day will go down in history as the one in which New Jersey ceded its standing as a leader in environmental protection efforts.
"Under this governor, we are now a state that puts right-wing sound bites over innovation. We have gone from being a clean energy and environmental protection innovator to a national laughingstock.
"Quite simply, this decision reeks of a governor desperate to boost his radical conservative credentials to distract from his failing policies. The governor may view this as a win as he is hailed by conservatives, but everyone else is going to lose.
"Our air will be dirtier, especially hurting children and senior citizens.
"The economic development, job creation and consumer benefits we would have built around energy efficiency, renewable energy and green jobs have been lost.
"At the very least, after this decision, no one can argue that this governor favors environmental protection. It would be hilarious that anyone actually thought as much, though there's nothing funny about dirty air and lost jobs."
Schaer: Christie's Budget Philosophy Born Out of a Moral Vacuum
(Trenton) - During today's special Assembly Budget Committee hearing on the Christie administration's plans to cut Medicaid funding for New Jersey's neediest residents, Assemblyman Gary Schaer (D-Bergen/Essex/Passaic) noted the administration's pattern of consistently reaching into the pockets of the state's working poor to balance the budget.
"This plan is both lacking in conscience and details. From what little we've been able to ascertain from the administration, it's clear that they are once again intent on balancing our budget on the backs of our neediest residents.
"Equally disconcerting is the apparent lack of detail still available on the administration's plans. With just over a month left until we must pass a balanced budget, the administration has yet to apply to the federal government for this waiver, which may or may not even be approved, and if it is, it might be well after the fiscal year 2012 budget cycle concludes, having little impact on our current situation.
"The only thing clear is that the Christie administration's philosophy on balancing the state's budget is one born out of a moral vacuum," said Schaer, Vice Chair of the Assembly Budget Committee.
"This plan is both lacking in conscience and details. From what little we've been able to ascertain from the administration, it's clear that they are once again intent on balancing our budget on the backs of our neediest residents.
"Equally disconcerting is the apparent lack of detail still available on the administration's plans. With just over a month left until we must pass a balanced budget, the administration has yet to apply to the federal government for this waiver, which may or may not even be approved, and if it is, it might be well after the fiscal year 2012 budget cycle concludes, having little impact on our current situation.
"The only thing clear is that the Christie administration's philosophy on balancing the state's budget is one born out of a moral vacuum," said Schaer, Vice Chair of the Assembly Budget Committee.
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Quigley on Christie's Medicaid Proposal: This Approach is Impractical at Best, Inhumane at Worst
(Trenton) - Assemblywoman Joan Quigley (D-Bergen/Hudson) today called the Christie administration's Medicaid proposals impractical and inhumane after listening to budget testimony on yet another one of the Governor's disastrous policy attacks on New Jersey's working poor families.
"The Governor would prefer to give tax breaks to dead millionaires while gutting women's health care funding, scaling back reimbursements for Federally Qualified Health Centers and slashing Medicaid coverage for the working poor. This approach is impractical at best and inhumane at worst.
"One of the more concerning aspects of this proposal is to charge a $25 co-pay for Medicaid clients who use an emergency room for a non-emergent event. While the theory behind this has some merit, there are serious practicality issues.
"The heart of the problems lies with the ambiguity in defining an 'emergency.' The administration needs to provide answers as to how this will be defined and by whom.
"Many insurers use admission to the hospital as an indicator of a true emergency. However, there are many events which reasonable people would consider an emergency, even though in hindsight it turns out not to be.
"For example, it's midnight and a parent has a six month old child with a high fever. The client goes to the emergency room to find it not to be a significant health event and the child is fine. However, the cause of the fever could very easily have been something as severe as pneumonia or spinal meningitis.
"What if this co-pay dissuades many people from seeking treatment because of their inability to afford it? What are the health care costs of delayed treatment for pneumonia or spinal meningitis? More importantly, what are the human costs of delayed treatment?
"These are all answers the administration needs to provide us with."
"The Governor would prefer to give tax breaks to dead millionaires while gutting women's health care funding, scaling back reimbursements for Federally Qualified Health Centers and slashing Medicaid coverage for the working poor. This approach is impractical at best and inhumane at worst.
"One of the more concerning aspects of this proposal is to charge a $25 co-pay for Medicaid clients who use an emergency room for a non-emergent event. While the theory behind this has some merit, there are serious practicality issues.
"The heart of the problems lies with the ambiguity in defining an 'emergency.' The administration needs to provide answers as to how this will be defined and by whom.
"Many insurers use admission to the hospital as an indicator of a true emergency. However, there are many events which reasonable people would consider an emergency, even though in hindsight it turns out not to be.
"For example, it's midnight and a parent has a six month old child with a high fever. The client goes to the emergency room to find it not to be a significant health event and the child is fine. However, the cause of the fever could very easily have been something as severe as pneumonia or spinal meningitis.
"What if this co-pay dissuades many people from seeking treatment because of their inability to afford it? What are the health care costs of delayed treatment for pneumonia or spinal meningitis? More importantly, what are the human costs of delayed treatment?
"These are all answers the administration needs to provide us with."
Johnson Decries Christie Plan to Slash Healthcare Coverage for the Poorest of the Poor
(Trenton) - Assemblyman Gordon Johnson (D-Bergen) released the following statement Tuesday after the Assembly Budget Committee heard testimony on Gov. Chris Christie's plan to cut health care for the state's poorest residents:
"No one but this anti-working class governor would propose making it difficult for the poorest of the poor to obtain health care coverage. That's simply inhumane and fiscally irresponsible because it will accomplish but one thing - residents with more expensive health problems seeking treatment at more expensive emergency rooms.
"Taxpayers, in the long run, will certainly save no money with this proposal, and poor residents, especially women who rely heavily on Medicaid, will be hit hard.
"If the governor thinks Medicaid is inefficient and needs improvements, that's fine, but he needs a plan that actually accomplishes that goal without increasing the cost to taxpayers and decimating health care for our most needy residents."
"No one but this anti-working class governor would propose making it difficult for the poorest of the poor to obtain health care coverage. That's simply inhumane and fiscally irresponsible because it will accomplish but one thing - residents with more expensive health problems seeking treatment at more expensive emergency rooms.
"Taxpayers, in the long run, will certainly save no money with this proposal, and poor residents, especially women who rely heavily on Medicaid, will be hit hard.
"If the governor thinks Medicaid is inefficient and needs improvements, that's fine, but he needs a plan that actually accomplishes that goal without increasing the cost to taxpayers and decimating health care for our most needy residents."
State on Education Ruling from Education Law Center / Speaker Oliver Comments
Supreme Court Decision Supports SFRA - Now Fund All Districts
Statement from David Sciarra, Executive Director of Education Law Center (ELC) and lead attorney the plaintiff schoolchildren in the current school funding case:
The NJ Supreme Court ruled in today's decision that the State's failure to fund the School Funding Reform Act (SFRA) caused "instructionally consequential and significant" harm to at-risk students in districts all across the state. The Court also found that the harm to NJ schoolchildren from the funding cuts are not a "minor infringement" to their right to a thorough and efficient education, but "a real substantial and consequential blow" to that right.
We are gratified that the Court has reaffirmed its longstanding commitment to protect the constitutional rights of needy school children, even in difficult economic times.
On behalf of the plaintiffs, ELC argued vigorously for full funding of the SFRA statewide, in accordance with the Court's May 2009 decision upholding the formula. However, because of the limited scope of the Abbott case, the Court ordered that the formula be fully funded in FY12 for students in only the 31 highest in need, urban districts.
While the Court's order is limited, the Governor and the Legislature have a duty and responsibility under the SFRA law to remedy the harmful impact of the FY11 formula aid cuts on at-risk students wherever they reside in the state.
We call upon the Governor and Legislature to ensure that the funding needs of at-risk students in all districts are met. ELC is prepared to work with Governor Christie, Attorney General Dow and Legislative leaders on a plan to fully fund the formula in the FY12 budget for students in all districts across the state.
Speaker Oliver's Comments on the Court's Ruling:
(Trenton) - Assembly Speaker Sheila Y. Oliver (D-Essex/Passaic) released the following statement Tuesday on the state Supreme Court school funding ruling:
"This ruling confirms that this governor unfortunately failed to properly provide a proper education to at-risk children in our poorest school districts. The governor breached his responsibility to protect at-risk children, and I applaud the court for recognizing it.
"It's important to note that had the governor followed state law to begin with, the majority of additional school funding would have been awarded to suburban and rural districts. In fact, more than 70 percent of additional funding would have been sent to suburban and rural schools, providing a proper education and property tax relief to districts throughout the state.
"We must be committed to finding a way to help all school districts, as the governor should have done in the first place. I'm committed to doing that and am hopeful others will work cooperatively to accomplish that goal in the weeks ahead.
"This much is clear - everyone must now put the rhetoric aside and begin working together. The time for political sound bites and devotion to partisan ideology must finally be over. We have waged this fight for far too long. We have a problem here that needs to be fixed, and it won't be fixed with over-the-top speeches and blame."
Statement from David Sciarra, Executive Director of Education Law Center (ELC) and lead attorney the plaintiff schoolchildren in the current school funding case:
The NJ Supreme Court ruled in today's decision that the State's failure to fund the School Funding Reform Act (SFRA) caused "instructionally consequential and significant" harm to at-risk students in districts all across the state. The Court also found that the harm to NJ schoolchildren from the funding cuts are not a "minor infringement" to their right to a thorough and efficient education, but "a real substantial and consequential blow" to that right.
We are gratified that the Court has reaffirmed its longstanding commitment to protect the constitutional rights of needy school children, even in difficult economic times.
On behalf of the plaintiffs, ELC argued vigorously for full funding of the SFRA statewide, in accordance with the Court's May 2009 decision upholding the formula. However, because of the limited scope of the Abbott case, the Court ordered that the formula be fully funded in FY12 for students in only the 31 highest in need, urban districts.
While the Court's order is limited, the Governor and the Legislature have a duty and responsibility under the SFRA law to remedy the harmful impact of the FY11 formula aid cuts on at-risk students wherever they reside in the state.
We call upon the Governor and Legislature to ensure that the funding needs of at-risk students in all districts are met. ELC is prepared to work with Governor Christie, Attorney General Dow and Legislative leaders on a plan to fully fund the formula in the FY12 budget for students in all districts across the state.
Speaker Oliver's Comments on the Court's Ruling:
(Trenton) - Assembly Speaker Sheila Y. Oliver (D-Essex/Passaic) released the following statement Tuesday on the state Supreme Court school funding ruling:
"This ruling confirms that this governor unfortunately failed to properly provide a proper education to at-risk children in our poorest school districts. The governor breached his responsibility to protect at-risk children, and I applaud the court for recognizing it.
"It's important to note that had the governor followed state law to begin with, the majority of additional school funding would have been awarded to suburban and rural districts. In fact, more than 70 percent of additional funding would have been sent to suburban and rural schools, providing a proper education and property tax relief to districts throughout the state.
"We must be committed to finding a way to help all school districts, as the governor should have done in the first place. I'm committed to doing that and am hopeful others will work cooperatively to accomplish that goal in the weeks ahead.
"This much is clear - everyone must now put the rhetoric aside and begin working together. The time for political sound bites and devotion to partisan ideology must finally be over. We have waged this fight for far too long. We have a problem here that needs to be fixed, and it won't be fixed with over-the-top speeches and blame."
Watson Coleman: Governor's Medicaid Plan Highlights His Lack of Support for Women's Health Care
(Trenton) - Assemblywoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-Mercer) released the following statement Tuesday after the Assembly Budget Committee heard testimony on Gov. Chris Christie's plan to slash health care for New Jersey's poorest residents:
"It should surprise no one that the governor wants to attack health care coverage for New Jersey's neediest residents. Medicaid is the most common source of health coverage for women in poverty, and this governor certainly doesn't support women's health care needs.
"According to a Kaiser Family Foundation Health Survey, nearly three-fourths of poor women and half of nearly poor women are either uninsured or on Medicaid. The availability of Medicaid, which covers 38 percent of poor women and 16 percent of nearly poor women, gives coverage to many women with limited resources.
"The governor is certainly consistent in his endearing support for New Jersey's wealthiest residents and equally consistent with his disregard for working class and poor families. He needs to start putting hard-working New Jerseyans first and foremost, and he can begin doing that by reworking this anti-working class plan."
"It should surprise no one that the governor wants to attack health care coverage for New Jersey's neediest residents. Medicaid is the most common source of health coverage for women in poverty, and this governor certainly doesn't support women's health care needs.
"According to a Kaiser Family Foundation Health Survey, nearly three-fourths of poor women and half of nearly poor women are either uninsured or on Medicaid. The availability of Medicaid, which covers 38 percent of poor women and 16 percent of nearly poor women, gives coverage to many women with limited resources.
"The governor is certainly consistent in his endearing support for New Jersey's wealthiest residents and equally consistent with his disregard for working class and poor families. He needs to start putting hard-working New Jerseyans first and foremost, and he can begin doing that by reworking this anti-working class plan."
Assembly Panel Approves Caputo Bill Making It Easier for Towns to Hire Laid-Off EMTs
(Trenton) - A measure sponsored by Assemblyman Ralph Caputo, making it easier for municipalities to employ emergency medical technicians who have been laid off for economic reasons, passed a key Assembly panel on Thursday.
"Emergency medical technicians are the ones we turn to when most in need," said Caputo (D-Essex). "They tirelessly work long hours protecting and saving lives, and they deserve every consideration we can give them in this tough economy. This bill is the right thing to do to help keep these courageous public servants on the job as much as possible."
Under the bill (A-3484), municipalities with paid EMTs would be permitted to appoint permanent status EMTs who were laid off for reasons of economy to vacant positions.
Caputo has also sponsored similar bills to help laid off police (A-207) and firefighters (A-2031). The police bill passed both legislative houses in October. The firefighter one was signed into law in July.
"These bills are commonsense approaches to helping the brave men and women who protect our safety each and every day, but they're also valuable tools when it comes to property tax relief," Caputo said. "Making it easier for local governments to hire laid-off EMTs, police and firefighters also helps save money on training costs that won't have to be incurred. The taxpayers win at every angle."
Under the new bill, laid off EMTs would get priority status for reemployment for 60 months.
The bill permits municipalities that employ EMTs to hire EMTs who have been laid-off for reasons of the economy before completing their working test or probation period and granted permanent employment status, though a nonpermanent EMT appointed under this program must complete the remainder of any probationary or field work test period.
The bill cleared the Assembly Law and Public Safety Committee.
"Emergency medical technicians are the ones we turn to when most in need," said Caputo (D-Essex). "They tirelessly work long hours protecting and saving lives, and they deserve every consideration we can give them in this tough economy. This bill is the right thing to do to help keep these courageous public servants on the job as much as possible."
Under the bill (A-3484), municipalities with paid EMTs would be permitted to appoint permanent status EMTs who were laid off for reasons of economy to vacant positions.
Caputo has also sponsored similar bills to help laid off police (A-207) and firefighters (A-2031). The police bill passed both legislative houses in October. The firefighter one was signed into law in July.
"These bills are commonsense approaches to helping the brave men and women who protect our safety each and every day, but they're also valuable tools when it comes to property tax relief," Caputo said. "Making it easier for local governments to hire laid-off EMTs, police and firefighters also helps save money on training costs that won't have to be incurred. The taxpayers win at every angle."
Under the new bill, laid off EMTs would get priority status for reemployment for 60 months.
The bill permits municipalities that employ EMTs to hire EMTs who have been laid-off for reasons of the economy before completing their working test or probation period and granted permanent employment status, though a nonpermanent EMT appointed under this program must complete the remainder of any probationary or field work test period.
The bill cleared the Assembly Law and Public Safety Committee.
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Riley, Coughlin & Burzichelli Bill to Allow Consumers to Get Gas Price Discounts Advanced by Assembly Panel
(Trenton) - Legislation Assembly Democrats Celeste Riley, Craig J. Coughlin and John Burzichelli sponsored to help ease the blow of rising gas prices by allowing retailers to offer rebates, and promotions for purchasing gasoline was advanced Thursday by an Assembly committee.
"It's time we push New Jersey's gasoline retail market into the 21st Century to benefit our motorists," said Riley (D-Gloucester/Salem/Cumberland). "If every other retailer is allowed to offer promotions to lure in customers with better deals, then gas retailers should be given that same opportunity, especially when gas prices are so high. Quite simply, this bill is common sense and a plus for New Jersey motorists."
"Consumers benefit daily from savings through coupons, discounts and other promotions at just about every business in New Jersey, except for gas stations," said Coughlin (D-Middlesex). "That's why this antiquated law needs changing. Gas is something most people have no choice but to buy, and this bill simply opens the door to more savings when New Jerseyans head to the pump. That's a good thing by any measure."
"This outdated law makes little sense for consumers, especially in this era of increased competition and volatile gas prices," said Burzichelli (D-Gloucester/Salem/Cumberland). "Why shouldn't gas stations be able to offer deals that cut prices to entice motorists to buy their products? That's what competition is all about, and competition can only benefit motorists who need these savings."
The bill (A-3133) stipulates that a consumer who earns credits through purchases on a credit card, debit card or rewards card may use those credits to receive a rebate or discount when purchasing gas.
It was released by the Assembly Regulatory Oversight and Gaming Committee chaired by Burzichelli.
"It's time we push New Jersey's gasoline retail market into the 21st Century to benefit our motorists," said Riley (D-Gloucester/Salem/Cumberland). "If every other retailer is allowed to offer promotions to lure in customers with better deals, then gas retailers should be given that same opportunity, especially when gas prices are so high. Quite simply, this bill is common sense and a plus for New Jersey motorists."
"Consumers benefit daily from savings through coupons, discounts and other promotions at just about every business in New Jersey, except for gas stations," said Coughlin (D-Middlesex). "That's why this antiquated law needs changing. Gas is something most people have no choice but to buy, and this bill simply opens the door to more savings when New Jerseyans head to the pump. That's a good thing by any measure."
"This outdated law makes little sense for consumers, especially in this era of increased competition and volatile gas prices," said Burzichelli (D-Gloucester/Salem/Cumberland). "Why shouldn't gas stations be able to offer deals that cut prices to entice motorists to buy their products? That's what competition is all about, and competition can only benefit motorists who need these savings."
The bill (A-3133) stipulates that a consumer who earns credits through purchases on a credit card, debit card or rewards card may use those credits to receive a rebate or discount when purchasing gas.
It was released by the Assembly Regulatory Oversight and Gaming Committee chaired by Burzichelli.
Quigley, Prieto, Coughlin, Coutinho Bill To Expand Crime-Fighting Potential of DNA Database Advanced by Assembly Panel
(Trenton) - An Assembly panel on Thursday approved a bill sponsored by Assembly members Joan Quigley, Vincent Prieto, Craig Coughlin, and Albert Coutinho that would increase law enforcement's crime-fighting potential by expanding New Jersey's DNA law to require samples from individuals arrested on suspicion of certain violent crimes.
"New Jersey is not alone in this movement. Roughly 20 other states have expanded their laws to include anyone arrested on suspicion of these crimes. This is an important step in bringing wanted criminals to justice," said Quigley (D-Bergen/Hudson).
Current DNA law only requires samples to be taken from individuals convicted of certain violent crimes.
The bill (A-2594) approved today would amend the state's "DNA Database and Databank Act of 1994" to require DNA samples from anyone arrested on suspicion of these crimes: murder; manslaughter; second degree aggravated assault when the person attempts to cause or causes serious bodily injury while fleeing or attempting to flee a law enforcement officer; kidnapping; luring or enticing a child; engaging in sexual conduct which would impair or debauch the morals of a child; or aggravated sexual assault, sexual assault, aggravated criminal sexual contact, criminal sexual contact or an attempt to commit any of these offenses.
"This is a smart move given the fact that statistics show that roughly 40 percent of burglaries and other non-violent crimes are being committed by someone who has already committed a violent crime," said Prieto (D-Bergen/Hudson).
"DNA is the most important 21st century crime-fighting tool we have," said Coughlin (D-Middlesex). "It's reliability is an important factor in meting out justice both for victims and those who might be falsely accused."
"The move to expand our DNA database works on both sides of the equation. It will increase law enforcement's ability to track down and convict otherwise elusive, and possibly violent, criminals, while also helping to exonerate anyone that may have been wrongfully accused of a crime," said Coutinho (D-Essex/Union).
The FBI uses a system called CODIS (Combined DNA Index System) to provide for the storage and exchange of DNA records on a national basis. CODIS consists of a "forensic" index containing DNA profiles from crime scene evidence. It also has an "offender" index, with DNA profiles of convicted offenders. By electronically comparing DNA profiles from those indexes, analysts often are able to obtain "hits" (or matches) between DNA found at crime scenes and DNA profiles of convicted offenders. Analysts also can link multiple, unsolved crimes to a single perpetrator by comparing profiles in the forensic database.
Testifying in favor of the bill today was Jayann Sepich, the mother of Katie Sepich, a 22-year-old graduate student at New Mexico State University who was brutally raped and murdered in August of 2003. Although no strong suspects emerged, skin and blood under her fingernails produced a full DNA profile, which was uploaded to CODIS.
In 2006, the DNA profile produced a match with Gabriel Avilla who had been convicted for several other crimes. If New Mexico had required a DNA sample for Avilla's felony arrest in November of 2003, investigators might have solved Katie's murder sooner and caught Avilla before he was able to roam the streets from three years.
The case inspired "Katie's Law" which New Mexico passed in 2006, requiring DNA for most felony arrests to be included in the database. Since then, roughly a dozen other states have passed similar laws. Just yesterday, Illinois passed their version of the law.
The bill also stipulates that if the charges against a person from whom a DNA sample was collected are dismissed, or if a person is acquitted at trial, the sample would be destroyed, and all related records expunged, upon request by an individual.
In order to ensure compliance with DNA collection, the bill would also make it a crime of the fourth degree for any person who knowingly refuses to submit to the collection of blood or biological sample. A crime of the fourth degree is punishable by a term of imprisonment of up to 18 months, a fine of up to $10,000, or both.
The bill was released by the Assembly Law and Public Safety Committee and now heads to the full Assembly. An identical version has already been approved by the Senate.
"New Jersey is not alone in this movement. Roughly 20 other states have expanded their laws to include anyone arrested on suspicion of these crimes. This is an important step in bringing wanted criminals to justice," said Quigley (D-Bergen/Hudson).
Current DNA law only requires samples to be taken from individuals convicted of certain violent crimes.
The bill (A-2594) approved today would amend the state's "DNA Database and Databank Act of 1994" to require DNA samples from anyone arrested on suspicion of these crimes: murder; manslaughter; second degree aggravated assault when the person attempts to cause or causes serious bodily injury while fleeing or attempting to flee a law enforcement officer; kidnapping; luring or enticing a child; engaging in sexual conduct which would impair or debauch the morals of a child; or aggravated sexual assault, sexual assault, aggravated criminal sexual contact, criminal sexual contact or an attempt to commit any of these offenses.
"This is a smart move given the fact that statistics show that roughly 40 percent of burglaries and other non-violent crimes are being committed by someone who has already committed a violent crime," said Prieto (D-Bergen/Hudson).
"DNA is the most important 21st century crime-fighting tool we have," said Coughlin (D-Middlesex). "It's reliability is an important factor in meting out justice both for victims and those who might be falsely accused."
"The move to expand our DNA database works on both sides of the equation. It will increase law enforcement's ability to track down and convict otherwise elusive, and possibly violent, criminals, while also helping to exonerate anyone that may have been wrongfully accused of a crime," said Coutinho (D-Essex/Union).
The FBI uses a system called CODIS (Combined DNA Index System) to provide for the storage and exchange of DNA records on a national basis. CODIS consists of a "forensic" index containing DNA profiles from crime scene evidence. It also has an "offender" index, with DNA profiles of convicted offenders. By electronically comparing DNA profiles from those indexes, analysts often are able to obtain "hits" (or matches) between DNA found at crime scenes and DNA profiles of convicted offenders. Analysts also can link multiple, unsolved crimes to a single perpetrator by comparing profiles in the forensic database.
Testifying in favor of the bill today was Jayann Sepich, the mother of Katie Sepich, a 22-year-old graduate student at New Mexico State University who was brutally raped and murdered in August of 2003. Although no strong suspects emerged, skin and blood under her fingernails produced a full DNA profile, which was uploaded to CODIS.
In 2006, the DNA profile produced a match with Gabriel Avilla who had been convicted for several other crimes. If New Mexico had required a DNA sample for Avilla's felony arrest in November of 2003, investigators might have solved Katie's murder sooner and caught Avilla before he was able to roam the streets from three years.
The case inspired "Katie's Law" which New Mexico passed in 2006, requiring DNA for most felony arrests to be included in the database. Since then, roughly a dozen other states have passed similar laws. Just yesterday, Illinois passed their version of the law.
The bill also stipulates that if the charges against a person from whom a DNA sample was collected are dismissed, or if a person is acquitted at trial, the sample would be destroyed, and all related records expunged, upon request by an individual.
In order to ensure compliance with DNA collection, the bill would also make it a crime of the fourth degree for any person who knowingly refuses to submit to the collection of blood or biological sample. A crime of the fourth degree is punishable by a term of imprisonment of up to 18 months, a fine of up to $10,000, or both.
The bill was released by the Assembly Law and Public Safety Committee and now heads to the full Assembly. An identical version has already been approved by the Senate.
Benson, Ryan, Riley & Jasey Bill to Investigate Taxpayer Savings Through Countywide Property Assessments Advances
(Trenton) - Legislation Assembly Democrats Daniel Benson, Kevin Ryan, Celeste Riley and Mila Jasey sponsored to investigate the potential taxpayer savings through countywide property assessment demonstration programs was advanced Thursday by an Assembly panel.
The bill (A-3939) would create a property assessment demonstration program that would be open for participation to any county in the state to demonstrate a more cost-effective and accurate property assessment program to save taxpayers money.
"We need a better system that saves taxpayers money by streamlining and sharing services, while providing relief to towns facing losses from tax appeals," said Benson (D-Mercer/Middlesex). "Protecting taxpayers needs to be our priority, and we need to try new and different ways. This is an approach that offers potential savings, it deserves an opportunity to succeed."
"Saving money while creating a more responsive and accurate assessment program can quite simply save taxpayers money," said Ryan (D-Essex). "That is the right thing to do, especially as we continue to work to control and cut property taxes and bring savings to hard-working New Jerseyans. The old ways of doing things can't cut it anymore."
"We need more consolidation and sharing of services if we're to bring real savings to taxpayers, and this is a sensible way to do just that as we look to tackle property taxes," said Riley (D-Gloucester/Salem/Cumberland). "It makes sense that countywide assessments would save money and resolve confusion and conflicts, so let's give it a try. It's worth a shot."
"The current system is unwieldy and confusing to taxpayers, local governments and counties alike, so we should be trying to simplify it and save money at the same time," said Jasey (D-Essex). "Promoting service sharing that saves money is smart and appropriate. No one can reasonably argue that this isn't worth a try."
Under the bill, each county municipality would use the same property assessment software, and all future revaluations and reassessments will be performed on that system. The system will also be used for other assessment-based functions, such as the development of a compliance plan, maintenance of assessments and the calculation of added assessments.
No state funds will be necessary for the implementation of this demonstration program. The county board of taxation in a demonstration county will absorb the cost through assessment appeal filing fees already collected by the board.
The bill requires Director of the Division of Taxation and the Director of the Division of Local Government Services to provide to the Governor and Legislature, not later than July 1 following the third full tax year after the implementation of the demonstration program, a report detailing the successes of the program, and problems experienced under the program and any recommendations for statutory or administrative changes to the current system of teal property assessment in the state.
The bill was released by the Assembly Housing and Local Government Committee.
The bill (A-3939) would create a property assessment demonstration program that would be open for participation to any county in the state to demonstrate a more cost-effective and accurate property assessment program to save taxpayers money.
"We need a better system that saves taxpayers money by streamlining and sharing services, while providing relief to towns facing losses from tax appeals," said Benson (D-Mercer/Middlesex). "Protecting taxpayers needs to be our priority, and we need to try new and different ways. This is an approach that offers potential savings, it deserves an opportunity to succeed."
"Saving money while creating a more responsive and accurate assessment program can quite simply save taxpayers money," said Ryan (D-Essex). "That is the right thing to do, especially as we continue to work to control and cut property taxes and bring savings to hard-working New Jerseyans. The old ways of doing things can't cut it anymore."
"We need more consolidation and sharing of services if we're to bring real savings to taxpayers, and this is a sensible way to do just that as we look to tackle property taxes," said Riley (D-Gloucester/Salem/Cumberland). "It makes sense that countywide assessments would save money and resolve confusion and conflicts, so let's give it a try. It's worth a shot."
"The current system is unwieldy and confusing to taxpayers, local governments and counties alike, so we should be trying to simplify it and save money at the same time," said Jasey (D-Essex). "Promoting service sharing that saves money is smart and appropriate. No one can reasonably argue that this isn't worth a try."
Under the bill, each county municipality would use the same property assessment software, and all future revaluations and reassessments will be performed on that system. The system will also be used for other assessment-based functions, such as the development of a compliance plan, maintenance of assessments and the calculation of added assessments.
No state funds will be necessary for the implementation of this demonstration program. The county board of taxation in a demonstration county will absorb the cost through assessment appeal filing fees already collected by the board.
The bill requires Director of the Division of Taxation and the Director of the Division of Local Government Services to provide to the Governor and Legislature, not later than July 1 following the third full tax year after the implementation of the demonstration program, a report detailing the successes of the program, and problems experienced under the program and any recommendations for statutory or administrative changes to the current system of teal property assessment in the state.
The bill was released by the Assembly Housing and Local Government Committee.
Assembly Panel Okays Tucker, Conaway Measure to Bar Botox Shots for Children Under 18
(Trenton) - An Assembly panel on Thursday approved a measure sponsored by Assembly members Cleopatra Tucker and Herb Conaway, Jr., M.D. that would bar physicians from administering Botox to anyone under 18 years of age.
"There has been a great deal of news lately pertaining to children, mostly girls, using Botox injections for aesthetic reasons," said Tucker (D-Essex). "By regulating the injections doctors and dentists can administer in New Jersey, we can help protect children from the dangers associated with this procedure."
The sponsors underscored the need for the bill, pointing to a recent incident that made headlines when a California mother condoned and provided Botox injections for her eight year old daughter. Nationally, over 12,000 Botox injections were administered to teens in 2009.
The bill (A-3838) would require the State Board of Medical Examiners to create regulations restricting the administration of botulinum toxin, or Botox, to anyone 18 years of age or younger for cosmetic purposes, except in cases where the use of Botox is deemed medically necessary by a physician.
The regulations must require a physician to document in the patient's medical record the medical necessity of administering botulinum toxin to a patient who is 18 years of age or younger.
"Botox has been linked in some cases to adverse reactions, including respiratory failure and death, following treatment of a variety of conditions using a wide range of doses," said Conaway (D-Burlington/Camden). "It is dangerous enough for adults. Children certainly shouldn't be subjected to this procedure."
In April 2009, the FDA updated its mandatory boxed warning cautioning that the effects of botulinum toxin may spread from the area of injection to other areas of the body, causing symptoms similar to those of botulism. Botulism is a rare but serious paralytic illness caused by botulinum toxin, which is produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum under anaerobic conditions.
In January 2009, the Canadian government warned that Botox can have the adverse effect of spreading to other parts of the body, which could cause muscular weakness, swallowing difficulties, pneumonia, speech disorders and breathing problems. Several cases of death have also been linked to the use of fake Botox.
Just this March, regulations were adopted by the Board of Dentistry to prohibit dentists from administering Botox injections.
The bill cleared the Assembly Health and Senior Services Committee by a vote of 10-1. The provisions of the bill would take effect on the first day of the seventh month after being signed into law.
"There has been a great deal of news lately pertaining to children, mostly girls, using Botox injections for aesthetic reasons," said Tucker (D-Essex). "By regulating the injections doctors and dentists can administer in New Jersey, we can help protect children from the dangers associated with this procedure."
The sponsors underscored the need for the bill, pointing to a recent incident that made headlines when a California mother condoned and provided Botox injections for her eight year old daughter. Nationally, over 12,000 Botox injections were administered to teens in 2009.
The bill (A-3838) would require the State Board of Medical Examiners to create regulations restricting the administration of botulinum toxin, or Botox, to anyone 18 years of age or younger for cosmetic purposes, except in cases where the use of Botox is deemed medically necessary by a physician.
The regulations must require a physician to document in the patient's medical record the medical necessity of administering botulinum toxin to a patient who is 18 years of age or younger.
"Botox has been linked in some cases to adverse reactions, including respiratory failure and death, following treatment of a variety of conditions using a wide range of doses," said Conaway (D-Burlington/Camden). "It is dangerous enough for adults. Children certainly shouldn't be subjected to this procedure."
In April 2009, the FDA updated its mandatory boxed warning cautioning that the effects of botulinum toxin may spread from the area of injection to other areas of the body, causing symptoms similar to those of botulism. Botulism is a rare but serious paralytic illness caused by botulinum toxin, which is produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum under anaerobic conditions.
In January 2009, the Canadian government warned that Botox can have the adverse effect of spreading to other parts of the body, which could cause muscular weakness, swallowing difficulties, pneumonia, speech disorders and breathing problems. Several cases of death have also been linked to the use of fake Botox.
Just this March, regulations were adopted by the Board of Dentistry to prohibit dentists from administering Botox injections.
The bill cleared the Assembly Health and Senior Services Committee by a vote of 10-1. The provisions of the bill would take effect on the first day of the seventh month after being signed into law.
Monday, May 23, 2011
Green, Conners & Conaway BILL BARRING THOSE CONVICTED OF CRIME FROM SERVING ON SCHOOL BOARDS GOES BACK TO GOVERNOR
(TRENTON) – Legislation Assembly Speaker Pro Tempore Jerry Green and Assemblymen Jack Conners and Herb Conaway, M.D. sponsored to bar those convicted of crimes from serving on school boards and requiring board members to undergo criminal checks was approved again Monday by the Senate, sending it back to the governor.
The bill (A-444) was approved 76-0 by the Assembly on May 9 and 39-0 by the Senate on Monday. It’s a slightly revised version of one that passed the Legislature in February but was conditionally vetoed by the governor.
“If we prohibit someone from teaching in a classroom because of past convictions, then they definitely should be prohibited from presiding over the education of an entire school district,” said Green (D-Union/Middlesex/Somerset). “It’s a common sense change that is long overdue.”
Under the bill, any person elected or appointed to a board of education would be disqualified from serving if they have been convicted of any crime that, under existing law, would disqualify them from being employed in a public school.
The conditional veto added language barring people convicted of bias intimidation and any fourth degree crime involving a child.
“People guilty of serious crimes should not be the ones to decide the educational future of our children,” said Conners (D-Camden/Burlington). “Our students deserve an education system that is supported by the integrity of its members.”
“A good education is the foundation upon which our lives our built,” said Conaway (D-Burlington/Camden). “We owe it to both students and parents to only have the most qualified individuals presiding over the education future of our children.”
The bill also would require each member of a board of education to undergo a criminal history background check within 30 days of being elected or appointed.
The cost of the criminal background check will be the responsibility of the school board member, but unexpended campaign funds may be used in the case of an elected member.
Furthermore, it would amend the oath of office taken by new board members to include a specific declaration that the member is not disqualified from service due to conviction of one of those crimes.
Any member who falsely swears that he or she is not disqualified would face penalties of up to 18 months in prison and $10,000 in fines.
The crimes included under the bill include any crime of the first or second degree; an offense involving the manufacture, transportation, sale, possession, distribution or habitual use of a controlled dangerous substance or "drug paraphernalia; a crime involving the use of force or the threat of force to or upon a person or property including, but not limited to, robbery, aggravated assault, stalking, kidnapping, arson, manslaughter and murder; a third degree crime, or any of the following crimes: recklessly endangering another person; terroristic threats; criminal restraint; luring, enticing child into motor vehicle structure or isolated area; causing or risking widespread injury or damage; criminal mischief; burglary; threats and other improper influence; perjury and false swearing; resisting arrest; any crime of the fourth degree involving a victim who is a minor; or conspiracy to commit or an attempt to commit any of the aforesaid crimes.
The bill (A-444) was approved 76-0 by the Assembly on May 9 and 39-0 by the Senate on Monday. It’s a slightly revised version of one that passed the Legislature in February but was conditionally vetoed by the governor.
“If we prohibit someone from teaching in a classroom because of past convictions, then they definitely should be prohibited from presiding over the education of an entire school district,” said Green (D-Union/Middlesex/Somerset). “It’s a common sense change that is long overdue.”
Under the bill, any person elected or appointed to a board of education would be disqualified from serving if they have been convicted of any crime that, under existing law, would disqualify them from being employed in a public school.
The conditional veto added language barring people convicted of bias intimidation and any fourth degree crime involving a child.
“People guilty of serious crimes should not be the ones to decide the educational future of our children,” said Conners (D-Camden/Burlington). “Our students deserve an education system that is supported by the integrity of its members.”
“A good education is the foundation upon which our lives our built,” said Conaway (D-Burlington/Camden). “We owe it to both students and parents to only have the most qualified individuals presiding over the education future of our children.”
The bill also would require each member of a board of education to undergo a criminal history background check within 30 days of being elected or appointed.
The cost of the criminal background check will be the responsibility of the school board member, but unexpended campaign funds may be used in the case of an elected member.
Furthermore, it would amend the oath of office taken by new board members to include a specific declaration that the member is not disqualified from service due to conviction of one of those crimes.
Any member who falsely swears that he or she is not disqualified would face penalties of up to 18 months in prison and $10,000 in fines.
The crimes included under the bill include any crime of the first or second degree; an offense involving the manufacture, transportation, sale, possession, distribution or habitual use of a controlled dangerous substance or "drug paraphernalia; a crime involving the use of force or the threat of force to or upon a person or property including, but not limited to, robbery, aggravated assault, stalking, kidnapping, arson, manslaughter and murder; a third degree crime, or any of the following crimes: recklessly endangering another person; terroristic threats; criminal restraint; luring, enticing child into motor vehicle structure or isolated area; causing or risking widespread injury or damage; criminal mischief; burglary; threats and other improper influence; perjury and false swearing; resisting arrest; any crime of the fourth degree involving a victim who is a minor; or conspiracy to commit or an attempt to commit any of the aforesaid crimes.
Friday, May 20, 2011
Moriarty, Burzichelli, Riley, Fuentes & Wilson Bill Requiring All New Public Workers to Live in New Jersey Now Law
(Trenton) - Legislation Assembly Democrats Paul Moriarty, Celeste Riley, John Burzichelli, Angel Fuentes and Gilbert "Whip" Wilson sponsored requiring all future public employees to live in New Jersey has been signed into law.
The New Jersey First Act (S-1730/A--2478) was originally approved 70-5-1 by the Assembly in December, but the governor conditionally vetoed it for two slight changes. The legislature recently approved the amended version and sent it back to the Governor.
The new law requires all newly hired public employees to live in New Jersey or move to the state within a year of taking a position.
"This is a great step forward," said Moriarty (D- Gloucester/Camden). "After all, public workers whose salaries and benefits are paid-for by New Jersey taxpayers should be New Jersey taxpayers themselves."
"This law will ensure that public workers in New Jersey live where they work," said Riley (D-Cumberland/Gloucester/Salem). "All public employees whose checks, health care, medical care and pensions are supported by New Jersey will have to call New Jersey home."
"This law will help end the exportation of millions of tax dollars when that money can stay here and boost our own economy," said Burzichelli (D-Gloucester/Cumberland/Salem). "It has sent the wrong message when government workers don't live among the people they serve, but we are changing that image."
"Ensuring every new public worker is also a resident of New Jersey ensures that we all have a vested interest in the success of our state," said Fuentes (D-Camden/Gloucester). "It makes sense for our communities and could potentially reduce commuting and increase our state's revenues."
"It's reasonable to ask those who earn their pay and benefits from New Jersey taxpayers to also live in this state," said Wilson (D-Camden/Gloucester). "Public workers should be living and paying taxes in New Jersey."
The law will cover all state, county and municipal employees as well as anyone working for political subdivisions of the state.
Employees of public authorities, boards, agencies and commissions will also be subject to the measure.
Additionally, the law covers all employees working within the educational system.
A five-member committee - rather than 3-member panel in the original bill - will review individual applications for exemption in cases involving extreme hardship or other unique circumstances.
Under the law, a person may request an exemption on the basis of critical need or hardship from the three-member committee established by the bill, and the committee would not have to meet monthly. A hardship, for example, includes someone who needs to move elsewhere for protection against an abusive spouse.
The law will take effect within four months, rather than immediately as was stated in the original bill.
The New Jersey First Act (S-1730/A--2478) was originally approved 70-5-1 by the Assembly in December, but the governor conditionally vetoed it for two slight changes. The legislature recently approved the amended version and sent it back to the Governor.
The new law requires all newly hired public employees to live in New Jersey or move to the state within a year of taking a position.
"This is a great step forward," said Moriarty (D- Gloucester/Camden). "After all, public workers whose salaries and benefits are paid-for by New Jersey taxpayers should be New Jersey taxpayers themselves."
"This law will ensure that public workers in New Jersey live where they work," said Riley (D-Cumberland/Gloucester/Salem). "All public employees whose checks, health care, medical care and pensions are supported by New Jersey will have to call New Jersey home."
"This law will help end the exportation of millions of tax dollars when that money can stay here and boost our own economy," said Burzichelli (D-Gloucester/Cumberland/Salem). "It has sent the wrong message when government workers don't live among the people they serve, but we are changing that image."
"Ensuring every new public worker is also a resident of New Jersey ensures that we all have a vested interest in the success of our state," said Fuentes (D-Camden/Gloucester). "It makes sense for our communities and could potentially reduce commuting and increase our state's revenues."
"It's reasonable to ask those who earn their pay and benefits from New Jersey taxpayers to also live in this state," said Wilson (D-Camden/Gloucester). "Public workers should be living and paying taxes in New Jersey."
The law will cover all state, county and municipal employees as well as anyone working for political subdivisions of the state.
Employees of public authorities, boards, agencies and commissions will also be subject to the measure.
Additionally, the law covers all employees working within the educational system.
A five-member committee - rather than 3-member panel in the original bill - will review individual applications for exemption in cases involving extreme hardship or other unique circumstances.
Under the law, a person may request an exemption on the basis of critical need or hardship from the three-member committee established by the bill, and the committee would not have to meet monthly. A hardship, for example, includes someone who needs to move elsewhere for protection against an abusive spouse.
The law will take effect within four months, rather than immediately as was stated in the original bill.
Quijano, Ramos & DeAngelo 'Bulletin NJ' Website for Public Contracts Now Law
Measure Creates Online Database for 'One-Stop-Shopping' for Public Contracts
(Trenton) - Legislation Assembly members Annette Quijano, Ruben J. Ramos, Jr., and Wayne P. DeAngelo sponsored to create an Internet database to provide the public with an easily accessible and comprehensive source of current information on local requests for proposals has been signed into law.
The measure was part of the Legislature's "Back to Work NJ" job creation and economic development initiative.
"This measure will improve transparency in local government and make it easier for citizens, groups and local governments to access information concerning public bidding," said Quijano (D-Union).
The law (A-3128) requires the State Department of Community Affairs, in consultation with the Office of Information Technology, to design, develop, and maintain a single, searchable Internet database, to be known as "Bulletin NJ," that would contain and display information on requests for proposals and other government procurement opportunities published by a contracting unit.
"It's important that we provide contractors and small businesses with a simple, effective means of actively searching through the hundreds of public contracts that are put out to bid," said Ramos (D-Hudson). "Doing so will help contractors get back on sound financial footing and hasten our state's economic recovery."
"By making publicly contracted jobs and other public contract opportunities accessible to everyone, we increase our chances of finding more highly qualified workers at perhaps a better rate to help contain costs," said DeAngelo (D-Mercer/Middlesex).
Under the law, the database will provide prospective bidders with the following information: 1) a detailed description of the services required; 2) the format and procedure that would be followed in submitting proposals; 3) the specific information which qualified vendors would provide in the proposal; 4) a statement setting forth the relative importance of factors, including cost, which the contracting unit would consider in evaluating a proposal submitted by a qualified vendor; 5) the deadline by which proposals must be submitted to the contracting unit; and 6) any other information the contracting unit deems appropriate.
(Trenton) - Legislation Assembly members Annette Quijano, Ruben J. Ramos, Jr., and Wayne P. DeAngelo sponsored to create an Internet database to provide the public with an easily accessible and comprehensive source of current information on local requests for proposals has been signed into law.
The measure was part of the Legislature's "Back to Work NJ" job creation and economic development initiative.
"This measure will improve transparency in local government and make it easier for citizens, groups and local governments to access information concerning public bidding," said Quijano (D-Union).
The law (A-3128) requires the State Department of Community Affairs, in consultation with the Office of Information Technology, to design, develop, and maintain a single, searchable Internet database, to be known as "Bulletin NJ," that would contain and display information on requests for proposals and other government procurement opportunities published by a contracting unit.
"It's important that we provide contractors and small businesses with a simple, effective means of actively searching through the hundreds of public contracts that are put out to bid," said Ramos (D-Hudson). "Doing so will help contractors get back on sound financial footing and hasten our state's economic recovery."
"By making publicly contracted jobs and other public contract opportunities accessible to everyone, we increase our chances of finding more highly qualified workers at perhaps a better rate to help contain costs," said DeAngelo (D-Mercer/Middlesex).
Under the law, the database will provide prospective bidders with the following information: 1) a detailed description of the services required; 2) the format and procedure that would be followed in submitting proposals; 3) the specific information which qualified vendors would provide in the proposal; 4) a statement setting forth the relative importance of factors, including cost, which the contracting unit would consider in evaluating a proposal submitted by a qualified vendor; 5) the deadline by which proposals must be submitted to the contracting unit; and 6) any other information the contracting unit deems appropriate.
Johnson Turns Spotlight On Police Suicide Prevention at Assembly Hearing
(Trenton) - Assembly Law and Public Safety Committee Chair Gordon M. Johnson today turned the spotlight on police suicide prevention at a hearing held by his committee where some of the state's top law enforcement representatives testified on the need for increased vigilance and prevention.
Johnson, a retired Bergen County Sheriff, noted that in 2011, so far, there have already been five suicides among three active officers and two retired officers and one attempted suicide in New Jersey. In 2010, Cop2Cop, the state-run, confidential, peer counseling program, prevented 20 suicides and the State Policeman's Benevolent Association (PBA) psychologist and trained crisis managers intervened in 11 calls from suicidal members.
Johnson also noted one of the most surprising statistics presented at the hearing is the fact that the state is loosing three times as many officers to suicide as in the line of duty.
Following the hearing, Johnson released the following statement:
"Countless studies show that police officers are more prone to suicide than the general population because of the high level of stress associated with their job and the types of incidents they deal with," said Johnson (D-Bergen). "What can also exacerbate the problem is the perception that police officers are supposed to be 'tough' and not talk about their problems. Consequently, many will internalize the trauma they face on the job, which may lead to drinking problems, trouble at home, and a host of other issues. This is then compounded by the fact that officers have a firearm readily available, making the option of suicide all that much easier.
"We need to build upon the findings of the 2009 report from the Governor's Taskforce on Police Suicide and find ways to increase vigilance, intervention and prevention among our law enforcement officers. It's all the more important that we focus a trained eye on the issue this year, given the added stresses facing many in our law enforcement community with massive police layoffs statewide, the demonization of public workers because of the state's pension troubles, and the looming 10 year anniversary of 9/11, which many of our officers were directly impacted by.
"All of the testimony today will provide a good road map for future legislation to help us combat this problem," said Johnson.
During the hearing, the committee heard testimony from some of the state's top law enforcement representatives, including: NJ State PBA President Anthony F. Wieners, State Troopers Fraternal Association President Dave Jones, and Dr. Gene Stefanelli, NJ State PBA Staff Psychologist, as well as Cathy Kelly of Ewing, a survivor of a suicide victim.
Johnson, a retired Bergen County Sheriff, noted that in 2011, so far, there have already been five suicides among three active officers and two retired officers and one attempted suicide in New Jersey. In 2010, Cop2Cop, the state-run, confidential, peer counseling program, prevented 20 suicides and the State Policeman's Benevolent Association (PBA) psychologist and trained crisis managers intervened in 11 calls from suicidal members.
Johnson also noted one of the most surprising statistics presented at the hearing is the fact that the state is loosing three times as many officers to suicide as in the line of duty.
Following the hearing, Johnson released the following statement:
"Countless studies show that police officers are more prone to suicide than the general population because of the high level of stress associated with their job and the types of incidents they deal with," said Johnson (D-Bergen). "What can also exacerbate the problem is the perception that police officers are supposed to be 'tough' and not talk about their problems. Consequently, many will internalize the trauma they face on the job, which may lead to drinking problems, trouble at home, and a host of other issues. This is then compounded by the fact that officers have a firearm readily available, making the option of suicide all that much easier.
"We need to build upon the findings of the 2009 report from the Governor's Taskforce on Police Suicide and find ways to increase vigilance, intervention and prevention among our law enforcement officers. It's all the more important that we focus a trained eye on the issue this year, given the added stresses facing many in our law enforcement community with massive police layoffs statewide, the demonization of public workers because of the state's pension troubles, and the looming 10 year anniversary of 9/11, which many of our officers were directly impacted by.
"All of the testimony today will provide a good road map for future legislation to help us combat this problem," said Johnson.
During the hearing, the committee heard testimony from some of the state's top law enforcement representatives, including: NJ State PBA President Anthony F. Wieners, State Troopers Fraternal Association President Dave Jones, and Dr. Gene Stefanelli, NJ State PBA Staff Psychologist, as well as Cathy Kelly of Ewing, a survivor of a suicide victim.
Speaker Oliver: Christie Medicaid Plan "Heartless and Irresponsible"
(Trenton) - Assembly Speaker Sheila Y. Oliver (D-Essex/Passaic) released the following statement Thursday amid a report by The Star-Ledger that the Christie administration plans to propose cutting people making as little as $103 a week from Medicaid:
"It's now clear why the administration has been hesitant to detail its plan - no one would want to publicly stand behind something this heartless and irresponsible.
"This program is an absolute lifeline to many hard-working New Jersey families who have no other access to health care. We're talking about families with low incomes and resources who have no other options.
"The outcome of such a cut would be easily predictable - many working class New Jerseyans would simply turn to emergency rooms for more expensive health care, driving up costs on hospitals that cannot afford it.
"The administration's continued theme of only looking out for those most fortunate is long past being tiresome.
"The administration needs to dump this plan and come up with a humane approach. I cannot envision this concept being approved by a Democratic Legislature dedicated to fighting for working class New Jerseyans.
"It's now clear why the administration has been hesitant to detail its plan - no one would want to publicly stand behind something this heartless and irresponsible.
"This program is an absolute lifeline to many hard-working New Jersey families who have no other access to health care. We're talking about families with low incomes and resources who have no other options.
"The outcome of such a cut would be easily predictable - many working class New Jerseyans would simply turn to emergency rooms for more expensive health care, driving up costs on hospitals that cannot afford it.
"The administration's continued theme of only looking out for those most fortunate is long past being tiresome.
"The administration needs to dump this plan and come up with a humane approach. I cannot envision this concept being approved by a Democratic Legislature dedicated to fighting for working class New Jerseyans.
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Greenwald & DeAngelo Bill Allowing Receipt Vote-By-Mail Ballots for All Future Elections Heads to Governor
(Trenton) - Legislation sponsored by Assemblymen Louis D. Greenwald and Wayne P. DeAngelo that would allow registered voters in New Jersey to choose to vote by mail-in ballot in all future general elections or in all future general elections, forever, passed the Assembly Monday, 44-32.
"Voting by mail is one of the easiest ways to participate in our representative democracy," said Greenwald (D-Camden). "Giving voters the choice to continue receiving mail-in ballots in perpetuity will help increase participation in elections and makes it that much easier for busy individuals to remember to vote."
Current law allows a registered New Jersey voter to choose to receive mail-in ballots in all future general elections, until the voter notifies the county clerk that he or she no longer wishes to do so or to receive mail-in ballots for all elections occurring in a particular calendar year.
Under the Greenwald/DeAngelo bill (A-3921/S-2756), registered New Jersey voters would be able to choose to receive mail-in ballots for all future elections, forever, until the voter notifies the county clerk that he or she no longer wishes to do so.
If a voter receiving mail-in ballots fails to vote in four general elections in a row, the county clerk would be required to send a notice to that voter to ascertain whether he or she continues to live at the specified address. If the notice is returned within 40 days prior to the next general election, the voter will continue to receive mail-in ballots. If it is not returned, the ability for the voter to receive mail-in ballots would be suspended until such time as he or she submits a new application for the service.
"Having to resubmit a request to receive mail-in ballots for all elections year after year is cumbersome, confusing and can lead to some voters failing to renew in time to vote in a particular election," said DeAngelo. "By giving voters the option to continue receiving mail-in ballots for every election, forever, we remove the confusion and make the process as simple as it should have been from the get go."
The measure now heads to the governor, who may sign it, veto it, or modify it through a conditional veto.
"Voting by mail is one of the easiest ways to participate in our representative democracy," said Greenwald (D-Camden). "Giving voters the choice to continue receiving mail-in ballots in perpetuity will help increase participation in elections and makes it that much easier for busy individuals to remember to vote."
Current law allows a registered New Jersey voter to choose to receive mail-in ballots in all future general elections, until the voter notifies the county clerk that he or she no longer wishes to do so or to receive mail-in ballots for all elections occurring in a particular calendar year.
Under the Greenwald/DeAngelo bill (A-3921/S-2756), registered New Jersey voters would be able to choose to receive mail-in ballots for all future elections, forever, until the voter notifies the county clerk that he or she no longer wishes to do so.
If a voter receiving mail-in ballots fails to vote in four general elections in a row, the county clerk would be required to send a notice to that voter to ascertain whether he or she continues to live at the specified address. If the notice is returned within 40 days prior to the next general election, the voter will continue to receive mail-in ballots. If it is not returned, the ability for the voter to receive mail-in ballots would be suspended until such time as he or she submits a new application for the service.
"Having to resubmit a request to receive mail-in ballots for all elections year after year is cumbersome, confusing and can lead to some voters failing to renew in time to vote in a particular election," said DeAngelo. "By giving voters the option to continue receiving mail-in ballots for every election, forever, we remove the confusion and make the process as simple as it should have been from the get go."
The measure now heads to the governor, who may sign it, veto it, or modify it through a conditional veto.
Assembly Passes Wisniewski, Watson Coleman, Giblin, Cryan Bill Moving Presidential Primary Back to June
Measure Would Save State Money, Provide Relevance by Rejoining Presidential Primary Election with Traditional June Primary Elections
(Trenton) - Legislation sponsored by Assembly members John S. Wisniewski, Bonnie Watson Coleman, Thomas P. Giblin and Majority Leader Joseph Cryan that would move New Jersey's February presidential primary back to June, to be held with regular partisan primary elections, passed the General Assembly Monday by a vote of 76 to 0.
"When we first moved New Jersey's presidential primary up six years ago, it was with the intent that New Jersey be more than a fundraising stopover for presidential hopefuls," said Wisniewski (D-Middlesex). "Now, all we are doing is paying $8 to $12 million every four years for the privilege of selecting presidential candidates with fully half of the nation. Moving the primary back to June just makes sense, from both a relevance and economic perspective."
Under legislation (A-3777), New Jersey's separate February presidential primary would be eliminated and returned to the regular June primary election, as it was prior to 2005.
"During the 2008 presidential primaries, New Jersey shared the stage with 24 other states and American Samoa, relegating our state's participation to a mere footnote," said Watson Coleman (D-Mercer). "Moving our presidential primary back to June ensures that if there is another extended presidential primary battle in the future, New Jerseyans will have a more significant say in the outcome."
"We moved our primary up six years ago to ensure that New Jerseyans weren't left of the sidelines when it came time to select presidential candidates," said Giblin (D-Essex). "Yet that's exactly where we ended up, because so many other states had the same idea. Moving our presidential primary back to June would provide us with the benefits we failed to achieve by holding an early primary election."
"This move is as much about cost savings as it is about returning relevance to New Jersey's presidential primary election," said Cryan (D-Union). "It costs between $8 to $12 million to hold a separate presidential primary election in February, money that, in this economic climate, could be put to much better use than ensuring New Jerseyans can pick their party's candidate for president on the same day as half the nation."
The measure now heads to the Senate for further consideration.
(Trenton) - Legislation sponsored by Assembly members John S. Wisniewski, Bonnie Watson Coleman, Thomas P. Giblin and Majority Leader Joseph Cryan that would move New Jersey's February presidential primary back to June, to be held with regular partisan primary elections, passed the General Assembly Monday by a vote of 76 to 0.
"When we first moved New Jersey's presidential primary up six years ago, it was with the intent that New Jersey be more than a fundraising stopover for presidential hopefuls," said Wisniewski (D-Middlesex). "Now, all we are doing is paying $8 to $12 million every four years for the privilege of selecting presidential candidates with fully half of the nation. Moving the primary back to June just makes sense, from both a relevance and economic perspective."
Under legislation (A-3777), New Jersey's separate February presidential primary would be eliminated and returned to the regular June primary election, as it was prior to 2005.
"During the 2008 presidential primaries, New Jersey shared the stage with 24 other states and American Samoa, relegating our state's participation to a mere footnote," said Watson Coleman (D-Mercer). "Moving our presidential primary back to June ensures that if there is another extended presidential primary battle in the future, New Jerseyans will have a more significant say in the outcome."
"We moved our primary up six years ago to ensure that New Jerseyans weren't left of the sidelines when it came time to select presidential candidates," said Giblin (D-Essex). "Yet that's exactly where we ended up, because so many other states had the same idea. Moving our presidential primary back to June would provide us with the benefits we failed to achieve by holding an early primary election."
"This move is as much about cost savings as it is about returning relevance to New Jersey's presidential primary election," said Cryan (D-Union). "It costs between $8 to $12 million to hold a separate presidential primary election in February, money that, in this economic climate, could be put to much better use than ensuring New Jerseyans can pick their party's candidate for president on the same day as half the nation."
The measure now heads to the Senate for further consideration.
Assembly Approves McKeon, Jasey, Stender Measure Urging Feds for Increased Pressure Against Iran Nukes Program
Sponsors Join With Activists in Urging Stronger Federal Intervention
(Trenton) - The General Assembly on Monday unanimously approved a measure (ACR-173) sponsored by Assembly Democratic members John McKeon, Mila Jasey, and Linda Stender urging the federal government for stronger intervention to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons.
Following the vote, the lawmakers discussed the importance of increasing U.S. pressure on Iran and were joined by statewide activists from groups such as the NJ Stop Iran Now Campaign and the No Nukes for Iran Teen Advocacy Program. No Nukes for Iran is made up of a number of high school students in Essex County who were largely the inspiration behind Assemblyman McKeon's decision to introduce the measure.
"The threat that Iran's enrichment program poses to the prospect of long-term stability in the Middle East cannot be understated,' said McKeon (D-Essex). "Iran has been identified by the United States as a sponsor of terrorism and their accelerated long-range missile testing and nuclear activities, with no civilian purpose, lead to the conclusion that the country is attempting to develop nuclear weapons. This development has such widespread and dire consequences that it inspired impassioned pleas for action from many of the high school students joining us today."
The resolution approved today urges the federal government to utilize additional sanctions, financial divestment, and increased diplomatic pressure to stop Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon.
"Iran has engaged in a foreign policy that is hostile to the United States and our allies in the Middle East," said Jasey (D-Essex). "Despite the country's claims that it is engaging in a peaceful nuclear energy program, all reports indicate otherwise. We cannot afford to turn a blind eye to this situation."
"Current sanctions against Iran have had a significant impact on its economy and oil production capacity," said Stender (D-Middlesex/Somerset/Union). "However, it hasn't produced our intended goal of forcing Iran to abandon its nuclear program. It's more critical than ever that the federal government step up the pressure now before it's too late."
Danielle Flaum, Founder of the No Nukes for Iran Teen Advocacy Program thanked the lawmakers for sponsoring the resolution.
"Today, New Jersey elected officials took a historic stand. By ensuring that this issue is a priority and taking action to end Iran's nuclear weapons program, we can tell our fellow citizens of New Jersey, our children, and our grandchildren - that we worked hard to make the world a safer place for us today and for future generations," said Flaum.
McKeon noted that although President Obama signed comprehensive bipartisan legislation last summer to penalize companies that support Iran's petroleum sector, various loopholes remained. Consequently, U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) introduced a bipartisan bill in February, which would eliminate these loopholes that allow U.S. companies to continue investing in Iran's energy sector.
"The United States has taken important steps in recent years to give teeth to our foreign policy and national security objectives in Iran, but more needs to be done," added McKeon. "The Iran Transparency and Accountability Act is one in a series of measures that have been working their way through Congress to strengthen last year's sanctions. It is exactly the type of action that we are urging in ACR 173."
The Assembly resolution approved today calls for further economic sanctions and financial divestiture, including sanctions against the Central Bank of Iran, limiting access to refined petroleum products, and enforcing current United States sanctions against energy companies that invest in Iran's energy sector in order to increase the pressure on Iran to stop its nuclear program.
(Trenton) - The General Assembly on Monday unanimously approved a measure (ACR-173) sponsored by Assembly Democratic members John McKeon, Mila Jasey, and Linda Stender urging the federal government for stronger intervention to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons.
Following the vote, the lawmakers discussed the importance of increasing U.S. pressure on Iran and were joined by statewide activists from groups such as the NJ Stop Iran Now Campaign and the No Nukes for Iran Teen Advocacy Program. No Nukes for Iran is made up of a number of high school students in Essex County who were largely the inspiration behind Assemblyman McKeon's decision to introduce the measure.
"The threat that Iran's enrichment program poses to the prospect of long-term stability in the Middle East cannot be understated,' said McKeon (D-Essex). "Iran has been identified by the United States as a sponsor of terrorism and their accelerated long-range missile testing and nuclear activities, with no civilian purpose, lead to the conclusion that the country is attempting to develop nuclear weapons. This development has such widespread and dire consequences that it inspired impassioned pleas for action from many of the high school students joining us today."
The resolution approved today urges the federal government to utilize additional sanctions, financial divestment, and increased diplomatic pressure to stop Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon.
"Iran has engaged in a foreign policy that is hostile to the United States and our allies in the Middle East," said Jasey (D-Essex). "Despite the country's claims that it is engaging in a peaceful nuclear energy program, all reports indicate otherwise. We cannot afford to turn a blind eye to this situation."
"Current sanctions against Iran have had a significant impact on its economy and oil production capacity," said Stender (D-Middlesex/Somerset/Union). "However, it hasn't produced our intended goal of forcing Iran to abandon its nuclear program. It's more critical than ever that the federal government step up the pressure now before it's too late."
Danielle Flaum, Founder of the No Nukes for Iran Teen Advocacy Program thanked the lawmakers for sponsoring the resolution.
"Today, New Jersey elected officials took a historic stand. By ensuring that this issue is a priority and taking action to end Iran's nuclear weapons program, we can tell our fellow citizens of New Jersey, our children, and our grandchildren - that we worked hard to make the world a safer place for us today and for future generations," said Flaum.
McKeon noted that although President Obama signed comprehensive bipartisan legislation last summer to penalize companies that support Iran's petroleum sector, various loopholes remained. Consequently, U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) introduced a bipartisan bill in February, which would eliminate these loopholes that allow U.S. companies to continue investing in Iran's energy sector.
"The United States has taken important steps in recent years to give teeth to our foreign policy and national security objectives in Iran, but more needs to be done," added McKeon. "The Iran Transparency and Accountability Act is one in a series of measures that have been working their way through Congress to strengthen last year's sanctions. It is exactly the type of action that we are urging in ACR 173."
The Assembly resolution approved today calls for further economic sanctions and financial divestiture, including sanctions against the Central Bank of Iran, limiting access to refined petroleum products, and enforcing current United States sanctions against energy companies that invest in Iran's energy sector in order to increase the pressure on Iran to stop its nuclear program.
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Moriarty, Ramos, Mainor Bill Upgrading Penalties for Killing Police Dogs Gets Final Legislative Approval
Death of Gloucester Twp. Police Dog Leads to Call for Mandatory Five-Year-Term
(Trenton) - Legislation sponsored by Assemblymen Paul Moriarty, Ruben Ramos, Jr. and Charles Mainor that would impose a mandatory five-year jail term on anyone convicted of killing a police dog was approved 63-3-7 Monday by the Assembly, giving it final legislative approval.
Moriarty introduced the bill in December, along with Senator Fred Madden, after Schultz, an on-duty Gloucester Township police dog, was killed by a robbery suspect.
"Schultz was more than a dog to his community," said Moriarty (D-Camden/Gloucester). "He was a friend, protector and an asset to all law-abiding citizens. This law will ensure he and his fellow K-9 officers have strong protections against those who break society's rules."
Under the bill (S-2541/A-3602) - named "Schultz's Law" - criminals found guilty of killing a police dog or a dog engaged in a search and rescue operation would receive a mandatory minimum five-year prison term, with no eligibility for parole, and a $15,000 fine.
Killing a police or search and rescue dog currently is a third-degree crime and carries penalties of between three to five years in prison and fines up to $15,000.
Schultz, a 3 1/2 year-old German shepherd and member of Gloucester's police force was part of a 100-officer manhunt for a robbery suspect. After tracking the suspect down, Schultz latched onto the man's arm. According to police, the suspect then purposely flung the dog into oncoming traffic on Route 42 in an attempt to escape his grip, where Schultz was hit by a passing car and died shortly after.
"Dogs that assist law enforcement are loyal allies in the fight against crime," said Ramos (D-Hudson). "This dog, like many others, was simply doing his job serving and protecting the public. They deserve legitimate protection against abuse, and those who abuse them need to face severe punishment."
"Canines involved in law enforcement risk their life, much like police officers, to do the job they were trained to do," said Mainor (D-Hudson). "Killing a police dog should be viewed in much the same way as directly assaulting a police officer."
Moriarty noted that Schultz was well-known throughout Gloucester Township, where he was a fixture at police presentations to schools and local organizations. He lived with his handler, Cpl. Mark Pickard, and his family.
The bill now goes to the governor.
(Trenton) - Legislation sponsored by Assemblymen Paul Moriarty, Ruben Ramos, Jr. and Charles Mainor that would impose a mandatory five-year jail term on anyone convicted of killing a police dog was approved 63-3-7 Monday by the Assembly, giving it final legislative approval.
Moriarty introduced the bill in December, along with Senator Fred Madden, after Schultz, an on-duty Gloucester Township police dog, was killed by a robbery suspect.
"Schultz was more than a dog to his community," said Moriarty (D-Camden/Gloucester). "He was a friend, protector and an asset to all law-abiding citizens. This law will ensure he and his fellow K-9 officers have strong protections against those who break society's rules."
Under the bill (S-2541/A-3602) - named "Schultz's Law" - criminals found guilty of killing a police dog or a dog engaged in a search and rescue operation would receive a mandatory minimum five-year prison term, with no eligibility for parole, and a $15,000 fine.
Killing a police or search and rescue dog currently is a third-degree crime and carries penalties of between three to five years in prison and fines up to $15,000.
Schultz, a 3 1/2 year-old German shepherd and member of Gloucester's police force was part of a 100-officer manhunt for a robbery suspect. After tracking the suspect down, Schultz latched onto the man's arm. According to police, the suspect then purposely flung the dog into oncoming traffic on Route 42 in an attempt to escape his grip, where Schultz was hit by a passing car and died shortly after.
"Dogs that assist law enforcement are loyal allies in the fight against crime," said Ramos (D-Hudson). "This dog, like many others, was simply doing his job serving and protecting the public. They deserve legitimate protection against abuse, and those who abuse them need to face severe punishment."
"Canines involved in law enforcement risk their life, much like police officers, to do the job they were trained to do," said Mainor (D-Hudson). "Killing a police dog should be viewed in much the same way as directly assaulting a police officer."
Moriarty noted that Schultz was well-known throughout Gloucester Township, where he was a fixture at police presentations to schools and local organizations. He lived with his handler, Cpl. Mark Pickard, and his family.
The bill now goes to the governor.
DeAngelo, Barnes & Egan Bills to Help Employers & Unemployed Approved by Assembly
(Trenton) - Legislation sponsored by Assembly Democrats Joseph Egan, Wayne DeAngelo, Peter J. Barnes III to control employer taxes and provide unemployment help for New Jerseyans was approved Monday by the Assembly.
The bills:
*Require that benefit instructions provided by each employer to a worker at the time the worker becomes unemployed include information on the time sensitivity of filing a claim for unemployment benefits (A-3794). Sponsored by DeAngelo (D-Mercer/Middlesex) and Barnes (D-Middlesex), the measure was approved 76-0 and now goes to the Senate.
"We must take advantage of every opportunity we can to keep out-of-work New Jerseyans afloat while the economy rebounds," DeAngelo said. "We cannot turn our backs on a simple step that can extend benefits, and we must ensure workers who suddenly find themselves unemployed understand the basics of filing for vital assistance."
"Ensuring a worker who finds themselves turning to unemployment benefits understands the importance of a timely benefits filing is commonsense," Barnes said. "In these tough economic times, we don't want to see anyone lose benefits because the rules were unclear."
*Reduce the unemployment insurance tax rates that will be imposed on employers during fiscal years 2012 and 2013 (A-3819). Sponsored by Egan and supported by businesses. It was approved 76-0 and now goes to the Senate.
"Preserving a healthy and viable unemployment trust fund while ensuring continued assistance for out-of-work New Jerseyans and keeping New Jersey as an affordable place to do business is a sacred trust and an absolute must," Egan said. "These measures are an important step toward ensuring we meet those goals for the benefit of workers and businesses."
The Egan bill would:
*Reduce the unemployment insurance (UI) tax rates that would be imposed on employers during fiscal years 2012 and 2013; and
*Modify, for all years after FY 2011, the UI trust fund reserve ratios which set employer UI tax rates in such a manner that larger reserves are required in the UI trust fund than under the current law before employer UI taxes are reduced.
The bill implements the recommendations made by the Governor's UI Task Force.
The bills:
*Require that benefit instructions provided by each employer to a worker at the time the worker becomes unemployed include information on the time sensitivity of filing a claim for unemployment benefits (A-3794). Sponsored by DeAngelo (D-Mercer/Middlesex) and Barnes (D-Middlesex), the measure was approved 76-0 and now goes to the Senate.
"We must take advantage of every opportunity we can to keep out-of-work New Jerseyans afloat while the economy rebounds," DeAngelo said. "We cannot turn our backs on a simple step that can extend benefits, and we must ensure workers who suddenly find themselves unemployed understand the basics of filing for vital assistance."
"Ensuring a worker who finds themselves turning to unemployment benefits understands the importance of a timely benefits filing is commonsense," Barnes said. "In these tough economic times, we don't want to see anyone lose benefits because the rules were unclear."
*Reduce the unemployment insurance tax rates that will be imposed on employers during fiscal years 2012 and 2013 (A-3819). Sponsored by Egan and supported by businesses. It was approved 76-0 and now goes to the Senate.
"Preserving a healthy and viable unemployment trust fund while ensuring continued assistance for out-of-work New Jerseyans and keeping New Jersey as an affordable place to do business is a sacred trust and an absolute must," Egan said. "These measures are an important step toward ensuring we meet those goals for the benefit of workers and businesses."
The Egan bill would:
*Reduce the unemployment insurance (UI) tax rates that would be imposed on employers during fiscal years 2012 and 2013; and
*Modify, for all years after FY 2011, the UI trust fund reserve ratios which set employer UI tax rates in such a manner that larger reserves are required in the UI trust fund than under the current law before employer UI taxes are reduced.
The bill implements the recommendations made by the Governor's UI Task Force.
McKeon: Gov. Breaks Out Flip-Flops Early This Year; Vetoes Barnegat Bay Protections Bill
Measure Would Have Allowed Local Governments More Control Over Stormwater Runoff, Nonpoint Source Pollution
(West Orange) - Responding to Gov. Chris Christie's absolute veto Thursday of legislation (S-1856/A-2606) that would have given Ocean County municipalities more latitude to control nonpoint source pollution entering Barnegat Bay, Assemblyman John F. McKeon (D-Essex), the bill's sponsor and chairman of the Assembly Environmental and Solid Waste Committee issued the following statement:
"For a governor who supposedly supports empowering local governments to do more and rehabilitating Barnegat Bay, Chris Christie has a funny way of showing it.
"In the simplest of terms, my legislation would have brought the power to control local sources of water pollution from the statewide level and given it to local municipalities in Ocean County - and the county government itself.
"We have heard time and again from countless sources that nonpoint source pollution - water pollution that comes from rain runoff carrying detergents, fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides from lawns into local waterways - is difficult, if not impossible to assess and control without significant local involvement and empowerment.
"Gov. Christie, however, feels he knows better than environmental experts.
"This is just the latest in a long line of questionable or downright harmful environmental decisions made by this governor, including:
-Claiming that he was unsure whether humans are contributing to global climate change;
-Proposing weakened protections on water reservoirs that serve more than half the state, while allowing development on previously protected land;
-Cutting $400 million from state clean energy programs;
-Considering withdrawing New Jersey from the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative pact;
and
-Withdrawing New Jersey from a multi-state clean air lawsuit against some of the nation's dirtiest utilities.
"The most disappointing part is that last winter, Gov. Christie said that he supported the Legislature's plan to remediate Barnegat Bay. Yet, the governor wasted no time in breaking out the flip-flops now that warmer weather has arrived."
(West Orange) - Responding to Gov. Chris Christie's absolute veto Thursday of legislation (S-1856/A-2606) that would have given Ocean County municipalities more latitude to control nonpoint source pollution entering Barnegat Bay, Assemblyman John F. McKeon (D-Essex), the bill's sponsor and chairman of the Assembly Environmental and Solid Waste Committee issued the following statement:
"For a governor who supposedly supports empowering local governments to do more and rehabilitating Barnegat Bay, Chris Christie has a funny way of showing it.
"In the simplest of terms, my legislation would have brought the power to control local sources of water pollution from the statewide level and given it to local municipalities in Ocean County - and the county government itself.
"We have heard time and again from countless sources that nonpoint source pollution - water pollution that comes from rain runoff carrying detergents, fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides from lawns into local waterways - is difficult, if not impossible to assess and control without significant local involvement and empowerment.
"Gov. Christie, however, feels he knows better than environmental experts.
"This is just the latest in a long line of questionable or downright harmful environmental decisions made by this governor, including:
-Claiming that he was unsure whether humans are contributing to global climate change;
-Proposing weakened protections on water reservoirs that serve more than half the state, while allowing development on previously protected land;
-Cutting $400 million from state clean energy programs;
-Considering withdrawing New Jersey from the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative pact;
and
-Withdrawing New Jersey from a multi-state clean air lawsuit against some of the nation's dirtiest utilities.
"The most disappointing part is that last winter, Gov. Christie said that he supported the Legislature's plan to remediate Barnegat Bay. Yet, the governor wasted no time in breaking out the flip-flops now that warmer weather has arrived."
Assembly Dems: Christie Admin Once Again Fails to Detail Viable Property Tax Relief Plan
More Bad News for Taxpayers Following Christie's 2010 Tax Hikes
(Trenton) - Assembly Democrats on the Assembly Budget Committee released the following statements Tuesday after hosting a property tax roundtable and hearing from the Department of Community Affairs:
Assembly Budget Chairman Lou Greenwald (D-Camden):
"In his first year in office, the governor cut local aid by $1.5 billion and all but eliminated property tax relief for seniors, the disabled and the middle class, driving up property taxes by 4.1 percent, the highest increase since 2007.
"The governor has failed to make true property tax relief for working class New Jerseyans a priority. Sadly, Gov. Christie is making matters worse by continuing his anti-middle-class policies and failing to provide a plan to fix New Jersey's broken tax system."
Assembly Appropriations Chairwoman Nellie Pou (D-Passaic/Bergen):
"We should not be placing the burden squarely on our middle-class, poor and those less fortunate, as we saw happen last year with the highest property tax hike since 2007. We should be working cooperatively to come up with a real plan to control property taxes.
"The time for slogans and blame is long past over. Taxpayers need relief."
Assemblywoman Joan Quigley (D-Hudson):
"Let's be clear - of the 22 bills tied to the governor's plan, only two-thirds had any sort of fiscal impact, and the governor and his staff have still been unable to fully explain how any of these bills would bring real savings to taxpayers.
"That's not the stuff of property tax cuts and major reform."
Assemblyman John Burzichelli (D-Gloucester/Salem/Cumberland):
"Eliminating rebates in 2010, slashing them in 2011, cutting off enrollment in the Senior Freeze program and chopping state aid by $1.5 billion is not a plan for property tax relief. It's a recipe for trouble, and that's exactly what we got with last year's property tax hikes.
"Taxpayers no longer want to see their officials casting blame. They want cooperation and results, so hopefully the Christie administration is ready for a new approach that will prove helpful to millions of New Jerseyans struggling under these property tax hikes."
Assemblyman Gordon Johnson (D-Bergen):
"Today proved once again that this administration has no plan to help working class New Jerseyans with property taxes. The rich are certainly enjoying their tax cut, but the middle-class and poor are getting nothing more than slogans and sound bites.
"The governor has vetoed several Democratic property tax reform measures, but the time for politics is over. Let's hope the governor's office can start anew and work cooperatively to benefit the taxpayers, rather than repeating the highest property tax hike since 2007."
Assemblyman Albert Coutinho (D-Essex):
"What's clear is that the governor's policies have resulted in the highest property tax hike in four years, put public safety at risk in our cities and benefited but one group - the wealthy.
"We need a cooperative, bipartisan effort to control property taxes, not one built on accusation that ignores the fact that massive cuts in state aid to municipalities and schools have negative consequences on the quality of life of working class residents."
Assemblywoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-Mercer):
"Today quite simply drives home the point that this governor has shown no regard for working class residents. He has no property tax relief plan for the middle-class and poor, yet is more than willing to protect tax cuts for millionaires.
"Hopefully the governor is willing to embark on a new approach that will actually prove helpful to working class New Jerseyans."
(Trenton) - Assembly Democrats on the Assembly Budget Committee released the following statements Tuesday after hosting a property tax roundtable and hearing from the Department of Community Affairs:
Assembly Budget Chairman Lou Greenwald (D-Camden):
"In his first year in office, the governor cut local aid by $1.5 billion and all but eliminated property tax relief for seniors, the disabled and the middle class, driving up property taxes by 4.1 percent, the highest increase since 2007.
"The governor has failed to make true property tax relief for working class New Jerseyans a priority. Sadly, Gov. Christie is making matters worse by continuing his anti-middle-class policies and failing to provide a plan to fix New Jersey's broken tax system."
Assembly Appropriations Chairwoman Nellie Pou (D-Passaic/Bergen):
"We should not be placing the burden squarely on our middle-class, poor and those less fortunate, as we saw happen last year with the highest property tax hike since 2007. We should be working cooperatively to come up with a real plan to control property taxes.
"The time for slogans and blame is long past over. Taxpayers need relief."
Assemblywoman Joan Quigley (D-Hudson):
"Let's be clear - of the 22 bills tied to the governor's plan, only two-thirds had any sort of fiscal impact, and the governor and his staff have still been unable to fully explain how any of these bills would bring real savings to taxpayers.
"That's not the stuff of property tax cuts and major reform."
Assemblyman John Burzichelli (D-Gloucester/Salem/Cumberland):
"Eliminating rebates in 2010, slashing them in 2011, cutting off enrollment in the Senior Freeze program and chopping state aid by $1.5 billion is not a plan for property tax relief. It's a recipe for trouble, and that's exactly what we got with last year's property tax hikes.
"Taxpayers no longer want to see their officials casting blame. They want cooperation and results, so hopefully the Christie administration is ready for a new approach that will prove helpful to millions of New Jerseyans struggling under these property tax hikes."
Assemblyman Gordon Johnson (D-Bergen):
"Today proved once again that this administration has no plan to help working class New Jerseyans with property taxes. The rich are certainly enjoying their tax cut, but the middle-class and poor are getting nothing more than slogans and sound bites.
"The governor has vetoed several Democratic property tax reform measures, but the time for politics is over. Let's hope the governor's office can start anew and work cooperatively to benefit the taxpayers, rather than repeating the highest property tax hike since 2007."
Assemblyman Albert Coutinho (D-Essex):
"What's clear is that the governor's policies have resulted in the highest property tax hike in four years, put public safety at risk in our cities and benefited but one group - the wealthy.
"We need a cooperative, bipartisan effort to control property taxes, not one built on accusation that ignores the fact that massive cuts in state aid to municipalities and schools have negative consequences on the quality of life of working class residents."
Assemblywoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-Mercer):
"Today quite simply drives home the point that this governor has shown no regard for working class residents. He has no property tax relief plan for the middle-class and poor, yet is more than willing to protect tax cuts for millionaires.
"Hopefully the governor is willing to embark on a new approach that will actually prove helpful to working class New Jerseyans."
Monday, May 16, 2011
The Governor's Tool Box is Empty
Take a look for yourself:
1) Of 33 proposals, 22 bills were INTRODUCED.
2) Of the 22 bills, 15 were certified as needed FISCAL notes.
-a fiscal note estimates the costs, savings, revenue gain, or loss resulting from the implementation of proposed legislation.
3) So only two-thirds of the bills even have a fiscal impact, meaning one-third would have absolutely NO impact on property taxes
4) Of the 15 bills, fiscal information from the administration was received on THREE.
5) Of these three, one showed state savings of $140,000 annually and indeterminate potential local savings. One showed ADDITIONAL state revenue of $400,000 and one showed ADDITIONAL state costs of up to $331,000.
6) Thus, the fiscal information provided by the Christie administration on 'toolkit' measures shows a net state savings/revenue increase of up to $288,000.
7) Keep in mind that property taxes fund local government, NOT state government.
8) OLS did fiscal estimates on three additional bills. Of these, one is cost neutral, one showed indeterminate potential local revenue gains and one showed indeterminate potential state and local costs and an indeterminate potential restraint of growth rate in property tax levies.
1) Of 33 proposals, 22 bills were INTRODUCED.
2) Of the 22 bills, 15 were certified as needed FISCAL notes.
-a fiscal note estimates the costs, savings, revenue gain, or loss resulting from the implementation of proposed legislation.
3) So only two-thirds of the bills even have a fiscal impact, meaning one-third would have absolutely NO impact on property taxes
4) Of the 15 bills, fiscal information from the administration was received on THREE.
5) Of these three, one showed state savings of $140,000 annually and indeterminate potential local savings. One showed ADDITIONAL state revenue of $400,000 and one showed ADDITIONAL state costs of up to $331,000.
6) Thus, the fiscal information provided by the Christie administration on 'toolkit' measures shows a net state savings/revenue increase of up to $288,000.
7) Keep in mind that property taxes fund local government, NOT state government.
8) OLS did fiscal estimates on three additional bills. Of these, one is cost neutral, one showed indeterminate potential local revenue gains and one showed indeterminate potential state and local costs and an indeterminate potential restraint of growth rate in property tax levies.
Quijano, Ramos & DeAngelo 'Bulletin NJ' Website for Public Contracts Heads Back to Governor
Measure Would Create Online Database for 'One-Stop-Shopping' for Public Contracts
(Trenton) - Legislation Assembly members Annette Quijano, Ruben J. Ramos, Jr., and Wayne P. DeAngelo sponsored to create an Internet database to provide the public with an easily accessible and comprehensive "one-stop" source of current information on local requests for proposals has again received final legislative approval by a vote of 75-0-1.
The measure was previously approved by the Senate 39-0 and the Assembly 75-0-2 in January, as part of the Legislature's "Back to Work NJ" job creation and economic development initiative. In response to the governor's conditional veto, the Legislature amended the measure to address concerns about the scope of the database and compatibility with the state's Local Public Contracts Law. The Senate concurred 34-0 with the governor's recommended amendments in April.
"This measure would improve transparency in local government and make it easier for citizens, groups, and local governments to access information concerning public bidding," said Quijano (D-Union).
The bill (S-2065/A-3128) would require the State Department of Community Affairs, in consultation with the Office of Information Technology, to design, develop, and maintain a single, searchable Internet database, to be known as "Bulletin NJ," that would contain and display information on requests for proposals and other government procurement opportunities published by a contracting unit.
"It's important that we provide contractors and small businesses with a simple, effective means of actively searching through the hundreds of public contracts that are put out to bid," said Ramos (D-Hudson). "Doing so will help these contractors get back on sound financial footing and hasten our state's economic recovery."
"By making publicly contracted jobs and other public contract opportunities accessible to everyone, we increase our chances of finding more highly qualified workers at perhaps a better rate to help contain costs," said DeAngelo (D-Mercer/Middlesex).
The bill was amended to:
-Eliminate the portion of the database that would have dealt with public employment opportunities;
-Include public contracting opportunities under the Public School Contracts Law;
-Adjust the detailed requirements for the content of the database to mirror Local Public Contracts Law requirements;
-Provide the state Division of Local Government Services necessary rulemaking authority; and
-Change the effective date of the legislation from July 1,2011 to March 1, 2012.
Under the amended legislation, the database would provide prospective bidders with the following information: 1) a detailed description of the services required; 2) the format and procedure that would be followed in submitting proposals; 3) the specific information which qualified vendors would provide in the proposal; 4) a statement setting forth the relative importance of factors, including cost, which the contracting unit would consider in evaluating a proposal submitted by a qualified vendor; 5) the deadline by which proposals must be submitted to the contracting unit; and (6) any other information the contracting unit deems appropriate.
(Trenton) - Legislation Assembly members Annette Quijano, Ruben J. Ramos, Jr., and Wayne P. DeAngelo sponsored to create an Internet database to provide the public with an easily accessible and comprehensive "one-stop" source of current information on local requests for proposals has again received final legislative approval by a vote of 75-0-1.
The measure was previously approved by the Senate 39-0 and the Assembly 75-0-2 in January, as part of the Legislature's "Back to Work NJ" job creation and economic development initiative. In response to the governor's conditional veto, the Legislature amended the measure to address concerns about the scope of the database and compatibility with the state's Local Public Contracts Law. The Senate concurred 34-0 with the governor's recommended amendments in April.
"This measure would improve transparency in local government and make it easier for citizens, groups, and local governments to access information concerning public bidding," said Quijano (D-Union).
The bill (S-2065/A-3128) would require the State Department of Community Affairs, in consultation with the Office of Information Technology, to design, develop, and maintain a single, searchable Internet database, to be known as "Bulletin NJ," that would contain and display information on requests for proposals and other government procurement opportunities published by a contracting unit.
"It's important that we provide contractors and small businesses with a simple, effective means of actively searching through the hundreds of public contracts that are put out to bid," said Ramos (D-Hudson). "Doing so will help these contractors get back on sound financial footing and hasten our state's economic recovery."
"By making publicly contracted jobs and other public contract opportunities accessible to everyone, we increase our chances of finding more highly qualified workers at perhaps a better rate to help contain costs," said DeAngelo (D-Mercer/Middlesex).
The bill was amended to:
-Eliminate the portion of the database that would have dealt with public employment opportunities;
-Include public contracting opportunities under the Public School Contracts Law;
-Adjust the detailed requirements for the content of the database to mirror Local Public Contracts Law requirements;
-Provide the state Division of Local Government Services necessary rulemaking authority; and
-Change the effective date of the legislation from July 1,2011 to March 1, 2012.
Under the amended legislation, the database would provide prospective bidders with the following information: 1) a detailed description of the services required; 2) the format and procedure that would be followed in submitting proposals; 3) the specific information which qualified vendors would provide in the proposal; 4) a statement setting forth the relative importance of factors, including cost, which the contracting unit would consider in evaluating a proposal submitted by a qualified vendor; 5) the deadline by which proposals must be submitted to the contracting unit; and (6) any other information the contracting unit deems appropriate.
Benson and Moriarty Consumer Protection Measure Continues Advancing
Bill Would Help Prevent Consumers from Getting Roped into Endless Contracts
(Trenton) - A consumer protection measure sponsored by Assemblymen Dan Benson and Paul Moriarty was approved 69-5-2 Monday by the Assembly, moving New Jersey one step closer to requiring notification to customers when a contract is to be automatically renewed.
"So many highly-used services out there today include automatic renewal clauses in their contracts," said Benson (D-Mercer/Middlesex). "In an era of paperless billing and automatic charges to credit cards or bank accounts, consumers often get perpetually roped into extended renewal, this bill will give consumers the opportunity to make more informed choices for themselves."
This bill (A-3770) establishes notification standards regarding service contracts for the performance of services, maintenance or repair over a fixed period of time in connection with real property.
"Sometimes contracts are entered into a year, or even two years, before the automatic renewal clause kicks in," said Moriarty. "This bill will protect consumers by ensuring that they have the opportunity to cancel any unwanted service prior to renewal of an additional term."
This bill now goes to the Senate.
(Trenton) - A consumer protection measure sponsored by Assemblymen Dan Benson and Paul Moriarty was approved 69-5-2 Monday by the Assembly, moving New Jersey one step closer to requiring notification to customers when a contract is to be automatically renewed.
"So many highly-used services out there today include automatic renewal clauses in their contracts," said Benson (D-Mercer/Middlesex). "In an era of paperless billing and automatic charges to credit cards or bank accounts, consumers often get perpetually roped into extended renewal, this bill will give consumers the opportunity to make more informed choices for themselves."
This bill (A-3770) establishes notification standards regarding service contracts for the performance of services, maintenance or repair over a fixed period of time in connection with real property.
"Sometimes contracts are entered into a year, or even two years, before the automatic renewal clause kicks in," said Moriarty. "This bill will protect consumers by ensuring that they have the opportunity to cancel any unwanted service prior to renewal of an additional term."
This bill now goes to the Senate.
The Governor's Property Tax Failure
Gov. Chris Christie's Record on Property Taxes:
•New Jersey's taxes INCREASED 4.1% in 2010.
•This is the HIGHEST increase since 2007.
•The AVERAGE property tax bill is now $7,576.
• The 2010 increase represented a nearly $1 billion JUMP in the overall property tax levy - from $24 billion to $25 billion.
• This increase comes AFTER the Governor cut school aid by $1 billion and municipal aid by $446 million.
• This is the direct link to the data: http://www.state.nj.us/dca/lgs/taxes/10_data/10taxsummary.htm
• He alone is responsible for that through his OWN policies.
• It's worth noting that this increase doesn't even show the impact of the Christie school activity taxes imposed on children and parents throughout our state just to join after-school activities.
• The governor has failed to make TRUE property tax relief for working class New Jerseyans a priority and we're starting to see the damage.
• Gov. Christie is simply making matters worse with his ANTI-working-class policies.
• His vetoes of civil service and sick leave payout restrictions call into question his commitment to reform.
• The 2010 property tax increase had NOTHING to do with the so-called 'tool kit'.
• The 2 key 'tool kit' items - the 2 percent cap and arbitration reform - take effect this year and were, by the way, approved as Democratic compromises.
•New Jersey's taxes INCREASED 4.1% in 2010.
•This is the HIGHEST increase since 2007.
•The AVERAGE property tax bill is now $7,576.
• The 2010 increase represented a nearly $1 billion JUMP in the overall property tax levy - from $24 billion to $25 billion.
• This increase comes AFTER the Governor cut school aid by $1 billion and municipal aid by $446 million.
• This is the direct link to the data: http://www.state.nj.us/dca/lgs/taxes/10_data/10taxsummary.htm
• He alone is responsible for that through his OWN policies.
• It's worth noting that this increase doesn't even show the impact of the Christie school activity taxes imposed on children and parents throughout our state just to join after-school activities.
• The governor has failed to make TRUE property tax relief for working class New Jerseyans a priority and we're starting to see the damage.
• Gov. Christie is simply making matters worse with his ANTI-working-class policies.
• His vetoes of civil service and sick leave payout restrictions call into question his commitment to reform.
• The 2010 property tax increase had NOTHING to do with the so-called 'tool kit'.
• The 2 key 'tool kit' items - the 2 percent cap and arbitration reform - take effect this year and were, by the way, approved as Democratic compromises.
Friday, May 13, 2011
Cryan Bill to Promote More Shared Services to Control Property Taxes Approved by Assembly
(Trenton) - A resolution Assembly Majority Leader Joseph Cryan sponsored to promote more shared services among the state's municipalities, counties and school boards to combat property taxes was approved 74-0 Monday by the Assembly.
The bill (AR-82) urges county and local governments to meet with each other regularly to discuss shared services and efficiencies.
"We know local governments have done a lot to promote shared services in recent years, but regular discussions amongst themselves with the goal of formulating and communicating shared service opportunities is a must," said Cryan (D-Union). "Anything that can promote cooperation and open the door to more shared services opportunities is a good thing."
The resolution also suggests that the Departments of Community Affairs and Education should provide guidance and assistance, where requested, to foster the sharing of services and collaboration of efforts to address local needs.
"If we're to use shared services and efficiencies to control property taxes, then we also need regular conversations about how best to do it," Cryan said. "Local governments need to be meeting and talking constantly."
The bill (AR-82) urges county and local governments to meet with each other regularly to discuss shared services and efficiencies.
"We know local governments have done a lot to promote shared services in recent years, but regular discussions amongst themselves with the goal of formulating and communicating shared service opportunities is a must," said Cryan (D-Union). "Anything that can promote cooperation and open the door to more shared services opportunities is a good thing."
The resolution also suggests that the Departments of Community Affairs and Education should provide guidance and assistance, where requested, to foster the sharing of services and collaboration of efforts to address local needs.
"If we're to use shared services and efficiencies to control property taxes, then we also need regular conversations about how best to do it," Cryan said. "Local governments need to be meeting and talking constantly."
Prieto, Voss, Spencer, Mainor Bill Giving Adoptees Access to Medical History and Birth Records Receives Final Legislative Approval
(Trenton) - Legislation Assembly members Vincent Prieto, Joan M. Voss, L. Grace Spencer, and Charles Mainor sponsored to give adoptees in New Jersey access to their medical history and birth records received final legislation approval on Monday by the Assembly.
The bill (S-799/A-1406), approved by a vote of 44-26-2, would establish a system to allow adult adoptees access to their original birth certificates and family medical history. It now heads to the Governor's desk.
"We've heard many heartfelt stories about the need for adoptees to access their birth records simply because they are facing a crisis and need to know more about their family medical history," said Prieto (D-Hudson). "This is information that many of us take for granted, but adoptees often cannot access through no fault of their own."
"This is the moral thing to do for adoptees who, because of their historic barriers, are left in the dark about key family medical histories and their backgrounds," said Voss (D-Bergen). "This is not an easy issue for anyone, but what is easy is standing up for the rights of adoptees to know information about who they are and where they come from so they can make the best health care decisions possible."
"This is unquestionably an emotional issue, but the bottom line is that providing adoptees with accurate information about their birth and family medical history is the right thing to do," said Spencer (D-Essex). "These records will allow adoptees to make the best possible health care decisions for themselves and their families. That is something that can benefit everyone."
"This is a compassionate plan to help many adoptees simply learn more about themselves," said Mainor (D-Hudson). "This legislation takes into account the needs of both adoptees and their birth parents, incorporating sensitivity and also practicality in the way it will be implemented."
Under the bill, the birth parents of individuals put forward for adoption in New Jersey would have one year from the enactment of regulations to submit a request to the state registrar for non-disclosure.
During this year, adoptees would be able to contact the adoption agency they came from to get non-identifying medical information, including a family medical history, alerting them to any genetic predispositions they may carry for certain types of illnesses.
After birth parents have had an opportunity to opt out of disclosure, an adopted person 18 years of age or older, an adult direct descendant of an adopted person if that person is deceased, or the adoptive parent or guardian of a minor adopted person, would be able to request from the State Registrar a copy of the adoptee's original birth certificate.
Birth parents would be required, after the year allotted for them to opt-out, to submit a preference form for how they would like to be contacted: either directly, through an intermediary or not at all.
If the birth parents choose not to be contacted, they would have to submit medical and cultural information which would be provided to an adoptee when they receive a redacted version of their birth certificate.
The bill (S-799/A-1406), approved by a vote of 44-26-2, would establish a system to allow adult adoptees access to their original birth certificates and family medical history. It now heads to the Governor's desk.
"We've heard many heartfelt stories about the need for adoptees to access their birth records simply because they are facing a crisis and need to know more about their family medical history," said Prieto (D-Hudson). "This is information that many of us take for granted, but adoptees often cannot access through no fault of their own."
"This is the moral thing to do for adoptees who, because of their historic barriers, are left in the dark about key family medical histories and their backgrounds," said Voss (D-Bergen). "This is not an easy issue for anyone, but what is easy is standing up for the rights of adoptees to know information about who they are and where they come from so they can make the best health care decisions possible."
"This is unquestionably an emotional issue, but the bottom line is that providing adoptees with accurate information about their birth and family medical history is the right thing to do," said Spencer (D-Essex). "These records will allow adoptees to make the best possible health care decisions for themselves and their families. That is something that can benefit everyone."
"This is a compassionate plan to help many adoptees simply learn more about themselves," said Mainor (D-Hudson). "This legislation takes into account the needs of both adoptees and their birth parents, incorporating sensitivity and also practicality in the way it will be implemented."
Under the bill, the birth parents of individuals put forward for adoption in New Jersey would have one year from the enactment of regulations to submit a request to the state registrar for non-disclosure.
During this year, adoptees would be able to contact the adoption agency they came from to get non-identifying medical information, including a family medical history, alerting them to any genetic predispositions they may carry for certain types of illnesses.
After birth parents have had an opportunity to opt out of disclosure, an adopted person 18 years of age or older, an adult direct descendant of an adopted person if that person is deceased, or the adoptive parent or guardian of a minor adopted person, would be able to request from the State Registrar a copy of the adoptee's original birth certificate.
Birth parents would be required, after the year allotted for them to opt-out, to submit a preference form for how they would like to be contacted: either directly, through an intermediary or not at all.
If the birth parents choose not to be contacted, they would have to submit medical and cultural information which would be provided to an adoptee when they receive a redacted version of their birth certificate.
Milam Bill To Provide Tax Break for Workers Approved by Assembly
(Trenton) - Legislation sponsored by Assemblyman Matthew Milam to provide a tax break to New Jersey workers was approved 51-23-2 Monday by the Assembly.
The bill (A-3792) gives the state authority to lower temporary disability benefit contribution rates by employees commencing in 2012.
"Giving the state authority to annually adjust the disability benefits rate will prevent excessive accumulations that have sometimes resulted in the diversion of significant amounts of monies from the fund for another use," Milam said. "If, as has occurred during most years, total contributions paid into the fund substantially exceed total benefits paid out of it, this bill would cause a reduction in tax rates for workers."
Under the Milam bill, the annual adjustments in the contribution rate are designed to prevent excessive accumulations in the state disability benefits fund.
In past years, large surpluses in the fund have sometimes resulted in the diversion of significant amounts of monies from the fund to the general state budget.
Since 1994, $748 million has been diverted from the fund, with the most recent diversion occurring in the current fiscal year.
If, as has occurred during most years, total contributions paid into the fund substantially exceed total benefits paid out of the fund, the provisions of this bill would cause a reduction in tax rate of workers.
Milam said he will be introducing legislation to form a task force to find a way to provide a similar tax break to New Jersey businesses.
"When this fund has surplus money, everyone should benefit," Milam said.
The bill (A-3792) gives the state authority to lower temporary disability benefit contribution rates by employees commencing in 2012.
"Giving the state authority to annually adjust the disability benefits rate will prevent excessive accumulations that have sometimes resulted in the diversion of significant amounts of monies from the fund for another use," Milam said. "If, as has occurred during most years, total contributions paid into the fund substantially exceed total benefits paid out of it, this bill would cause a reduction in tax rates for workers."
Under the Milam bill, the annual adjustments in the contribution rate are designed to prevent excessive accumulations in the state disability benefits fund.
In past years, large surpluses in the fund have sometimes resulted in the diversion of significant amounts of monies from the fund to the general state budget.
Since 1994, $748 million has been diverted from the fund, with the most recent diversion occurring in the current fiscal year.
If, as has occurred during most years, total contributions paid into the fund substantially exceed total benefits paid out of the fund, the provisions of this bill would cause a reduction in tax rate of workers.
Milam said he will be introducing legislation to form a task force to find a way to provide a similar tax break to New Jersey businesses.
"When this fund has surplus money, everyone should benefit," Milam said.
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