May 22, 2003

MERKT CALLS ON ASSEMBLY DEMOCRATS TO POST LOCAL PAY-TO-PLAY LEGISLATION

CRITICIZES DEMOCRATS FOR USING PROCESS TO BLOCK PROPOSAL

Assemblyman Rick Merkt today urged Assembly Democrats to post his "Pay to Play" campaign finance reform legislation for a vote, and condemned the Democrats for their use of procedural maneuvers to block a vote on the proposal.

"What we are seeing here is the legislative version of a shell game," said Merkt, R-Morris. "They keep moving ‘Pay to Play’ around from committee to committee hoping it will never be seen again for a vote by this house."

At the May 15 voting session Merkt gave 24 hours’ notice of his intent to make a motion to relieve the Assembly State Government Committee of Assembly Bill 3189, which enacts "Pay-to-Play" reform on the municipal and county level.

Subsequently the Democrats notified Merkt that they were transferring the bill to a new committee – Housing and Local Government – effectively blocking him from having the bill placed before the house for a vote.

"Governor McGreevey said he would support Pay to Play campaign finance reform if it included county and local government, as my bill would do," Merkt said. "I took the Governor at his word when he called for Pay-to-Play reform on the local level, and I have followed the rules and customs of this house in order to make that reform a reality. Clearly the Democrats have no interest in passing this reform."

Merkt said he will continue pushing for this reform legislation, and will do everything in his power to have it brought before the full Assembly for a vote.

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May 22, 2003

The General Assembly Thursday approved 78-0 "Michael’s Law," legislation sponsored by Assemblyman James Holzapfel that would impose mandatory imprisonment on individuals convicted of third or subsequent DUI offenses.

"Too many families have suffered devastating losses because someone chose to get behind the wheel of an automobile after drinking," said Holzapfel, R-Monmouth, Ocean. "When someone gets behind the wheel while intoxicated they know they are putting other people at risk, and we have a responsibility to punish this reckless behavior."

The Holzapfel bill, A-3342, requires third and subsequent DUI offenders to receive a mandatory 90 days imprisonment and 90 days in an alcohol treatment facility. It does not allow this time to be reduced by community service or work release as under current law.

This bill, also sponsored by Assemblymen Nick Asselta, R-Cumberland, Cape May and Atlantic, and Michael Patrick Carroll, R-Morris, was named "Michael’s Law," in memory of 19-year old Michael Albano, a 19-year old Vineland resident who was killed in December 2001 by a drunk driver who had four previous DUI convictions.

"Someone who has repeatedly committed this offense has demonstrated they have no regard for the safety of others and that they do not wish to alter their behavior," Holzapfel said. "These individuals, who have repeatedly violated the law and risked the lives of others, should not be shown leniency at sentencing time. This law will ensure that they pay a price for their actions."

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May 22, 2003

SAY BILL IS OPEN TO ABUSE AND WILL WASTE FUNDS

Assemblymen Michael Patrick Carroll and Rick Merkt today opposed legislation that would merge the authorities governing the New Jersey Turnpike and the Garden State Parkway saying that the bill will fail to accomplish its core mission of cutting costs and reducing bureaucracy.

"While merging these toll road authorities appears to be a way to cut costs and streamline government this bill falls short of that goal," said Merkt, R-Morris. "We have to make sure that this merger isn’t used for patronage purposes and that the administration is not planning to use this merger as a way to grab funding for other pet projects."

One problem with the bill is that would permit the use of toll road revenue for highway projects not directly related to continued operation of those toll roads. It also contains no provision for the Legislature to provide oversight of which projects these revenues will be used to fund.

An additional concern is the recent newspaper reports indicating that any savings from the merger in the first three years will be needed to pay the law firms that will serve as bond counsel for the refinancing that is central to the merger of the two authorities.

"This merger should be about reducing bureaucracy and saving money," Carroll said. "Unfortunately, as currently structured this legislation will serve only as a vehicle for more patronage, waste and mismanagement. This bill will likely make matters worse – not better."

The Assembly offered a number of amendments to the bill to address these concerns, but those amendments were rejected by the Democrat majority.

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May 22, 2003

GEIST LEGISLATION SEEKS TO SLAM THE DOOR SHUT ON CAMPAIGN AIDE-TO-MILLIONAIRE BUSINESS DEALINGS

Assemblyman George Geist has introduced legislation designed to prevent repeat occurrences of the controversial business deals that allowed Governor McGreevey’s campaign aides to reap huge profits from billboard deals during the time period between the November 2001 election and Inauguration day 2002.

"This legislation closes the loophole that allows campaign aides to become millionaires between Election Day and Inauguration day," said Geist, R-Camden, Gloucester. "Individuals who are serving as top advisors to a Governor-elect should not be able to enjoy golden parachutes."

The Geist legislation comes in the wake of news reports about lucrative billboard deals by Governor McGreevey’s former chief of staff Gary Taffet and former counsel Paul Levinsohn while they served on the Governor’s transition team. One of the billboards was constructed in Washington Township, Gloucester County, without any public hearings by any public body.

The bill, A-3674, would extend the status of "Special State officer" to include "any person serving as an employee or an advisor to a Governor-elect" regardless of whether that person receives compensation from any state funds for that service.

Under current law, "Special State officer’s" are subject to the executive branch ethics laws prohibiting them from negotiating on behalf of or representing interests outside the scope of their state duties.

Geist noted that the legislation also contains a provision that would prohibit those serving on gubernatorial transition teams from negotiating or lobbying on behalf on matters pending before local boards, bodies, divisions or offices operating within school districts, municipalities or counties.

The billboard deal in Washington Township could not have been negotiated by Taffet and Levinsohn under the provisions of this new law.

"Washington Township was victimized by the ‘Billboard Boys,’ and I’m trying now to ensure our towns are never victimized in this way again," Geist said. "There should never, ever again be another ‘Billboardgate’ in this state, and this legislation will make sure there is not."

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KIRK CONOVER SWORN IN AS ASSEMBLYMAN REPRESENTING THE SECOND LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT

In a ceremony prior to today’s General Assembly voting session, Atlantic County Freeholder Chairman Kirk Conover was officially sworn in as the new Assemblyman representing the Second Legislative District.

"I am looking forward to this new challenge and am anxious to get started representing all the people of the Second District," Conover said. "I look forward to the opportunity to serve with Assemblyman Blee and Senator Gormley and believe this will be an excellent opportunity to accomplish positive things for both the people of my district and of this state."

Conover, 49, was selected to replace retiring Assemblyman Paul D’Amato and now joins Assemblyman Frank Blee and Senator Bill Gormley in representing the Second Legislative District.

Conover is a resident of Leeds Point in Galloway Township and has served on the Atlantic County Freeholder board since 1980. Conover was elected chairman of the Freeholder board in 1992, 1995, and has served in that position since 2000.

In addition to his public service, Conover is a licensed commercial insurance producer with Shore Agency, Inc., a partner in Tilton Real Estate, and the owner of Absecon Video. He also is a commercial clammer and former semi-pro baseball player.

Conover is married to wife Nancy.

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May 22, 2003

MYERS/DOHERTY MEASURE URGES CHANGES IN TRUCK TOLLS OVER BRIDGES

A resolution sponsored by Assemblywoman Connie Myers and Assemblyman Michael Doherty that prompts reconsideration of the toll increases trucks currently pay to cross the Delaware was approved today by the General Assembly.

The measure, AR-204, urges the Delaware River Joint Toll Bridge Commission to modify toll increases for trucks and to provide a toll discount to trucks which make frequent trips on the Commission’s toll bridges.

"Although there was a toll hike for all drivers, truckers have been hit with a four hundred percent increase in toll charges," said Myers, R-Hunterdon, Warren. "This is not only exorbitant, but it will result in damaging consequences that the Commission did not think out–specifically, truck traffic on local roads."

"These toll increases are of great concern to the communities and towns along the Delaware River," asserted Doherty, R-Warren, Hunterdon. "Truckers will look for other routes to get across the river without paying excessive tolls, and this will compromise the safety, health and quality of life in towns where big rigs simply do not belong.

"Local businesses that do trucking across the Delaware also have been unfairly penalized with this toll increase," Doherty added. "This is a time of economic uncertainty, and smaller

businesses that make frequent or daily trips across the bridges are spending outrageous amounts of money on tolls. The increases could lead to job losses and other serious economic consequences."

"Since the Commission is planning to give a forty percent discount to cars that make frequent trips across the toll bridges, we urge it to consider giving the same kind of discount to trucks." said Myers.

The resolution was passed by a 77-0 vote.

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May 20, 2003

Republican members of the Assembly Appropriations Committee today offered an amendment to block efforts by the Democrat majority to take additional dollars to be raised as part of the Garden State Preservation Trust (GSPT) program away from farmland preservation projects.

The Democrats have proposed a constitutional amendment, ACR-169, raising the bonding cap for the GSPT program from $1 billion to $1.15 billion, and then through separate legislation shifting the ratio of that extra $150 million to be spent on farmland preservation projects from the current 40 percent to 20 percent. Such a shift would, in theory, free up more dollars to be spent on parks in urban areas.

The Republicans proposed amending the ACR to specifically keep the funding ratio at the current 60/40 split – 60 percent for open space projects and 40 percent for farmland preservation projects.

"This is an attempt by the Democrats to take any extra money in this program and funnel it to urban areas at the expense of vital farmland preservation projects," said Assembly Republican Appropriations Officer Guy Gregg, R-Sussex, Morris and Hunterdon. "The current 60/40 split is working well and I don’t see any reason why we should shift that formula now."

Assemblyman Joseph Pennacchio, R-Morris, Passaic, also advocated maintaining the 60/40 funding split for any excess revenue saying the shift will come at the expense of farmland preservation needs.

"I would question why the administration would appropriate additional funds to cities like Newark, when that city has stated its intention to use an extra $165 million in discretionary money to build a new arena, not to expand and modernize parks," Pennacchio said.

Assembly Republican Budget Officer Joseph Malone, R-Burlington, Monmouth, Ocean and Mercer, said that the Democrat motives for the funding shift are purely political.

"There doesn’t appear to be a legitimate policy justification for this funding ratio shift, so it appears to me that the Democrats are making a political judgment about where they want this extra $150 million to be spent," Malone said. "It is unfortunate that they are choosing to politicize this program."

In addition to her concerns about shifting the funding ratio, Assemblywoman Rose Heck, R-Bergen, also raised concerns about increasing borrowing at a time when the state is facing a budget deficit.

"At some point we need to face the fiscal reality that our state is dealing with a budget shortfall," Heck said. "At a time when we are dealing with a fiscal crisis, I hope the Democrats are not proposing raising the bonding cap simply as a way of directing more state backed borrowing to projects in their own districts."

The Democrats unanimously rejected the Republican attempt to amend the bill to maintain the 60/40 ratio.

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May 15, 2003

Assembly Republican Leader Paul DiGaetano today said that the auto insurance reform bill that cleared the Assembly this evening is unlikely to undo the damage done to New Jersey motorists by 51 McGreevey administration rate hikes.

"While the legislation approved by the Assembly today takes some positive steps toward reforming New Jersey’s auto insurance system, ultimately it likely won’t have a beneficial impact for most motorists who have been buried under the 51 rate hikes approved by this administration," said DiGaetano, R-Essex, Passaic and Bergen.

Despite spending five years campaigning on a platform of lower auto insurance rates, and making a campaign pledge to hold public hearings on any proposed auto insurance rate increases, Governor McGreevey has covertly approved 51 separate rate hikes – including some double-digit increases – since taking office.

"We do need to work to open up New Jersey’s auto insurance market so that we can increase competition and bring down rates," DiGaetano said. "This legislation has good intentions, but unfortunately the bill’s impact will be diluted by the large rate increases already enacted by Governor McGreevey."

DiGaetano said that he and his Republican colleagues are committed to continuing to work toward a solution that will have a real, long-term benefit for New Jersey motorists.

"This legislation only represents a small step in this process, and we will continue to find real solutions that will result in long-term rate reductions for New Jersey motorists, but it will be a challenge to undo the damage of 51 rate increases," DiGaetano said.

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May 15, 2003

REPUBLICAN LEADERSHIP TROUBLED BY DEMOCRAT POLITICKING ON FLAG ORDINANCE BILL

The Assembly Republican leadership today said they were troubled by the manner in which the Assembly Democrats attempted to obtain ‘emergency’ authority to move a bill designed to bar municipalities from prohibiting patriotic displays.

"Our caucus supports the effort to ensure that citizens are not prohibited by their local government from displaying their support for our troops and our country," said Assembly Republican Leader Paul DiGaetano, R-Essex, Passaic and Bergen. "But it was troubling that the Democrats were unwilling to listen to suggestions about how the bill could be improved."

DiGaetano said he was curious as to why the Democrats acted to obtain the emergency without first consulting the Assembly Republican leadership and refusing to give any consideration to Republican amendments.

At issue is the overly vague language of the bill, which failed to adequately define or set parameters for "any other patriotic display" meaning that the bill, as drafted, would not simply have allowed patriotic displays such as yellow ribbons, but anything up to and including a 35 ton Sherman tank.

"This bill can be voted on as early as next Thursday," DiGaetano pointed out. "Hopefully in the next six days the Democrats will realize these are legitimate issues that deserve to be given due consideration in time for next week’s vote."

Assembly Republican Conference Leader Alex DeCroce, R-Morris and Passaic, said that not only were the Democrats were unwilling to give consideration to any of these factors, they also failed to consult with the Republican leadership about their request for an emergency vote - as is customary.

"It appears as if the Democrats are trying to score cheap political points," DeCroce said. "There can be no other logical explanation, when our caucus simply wanted to offer amendments to clarify and improve the bill’s intent."

"It is customary that on a bill that would have bipartisan support, that the majority would consult the minority beforehand so that the need for the emergency can be given proper consideration. For some reason, that did not take place today," DeCroce said. "The concept of the bill is right, the details need to be less vague."

"I hope the Democrats were not playing politics with a bill that if appropriately drafted should have bipartisan support," DeCroce said. "Perhaps by next week we can address these issues so that we can move forward with this proposal."

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May 15, 2003

SAYS HE STILL HAS CONCERNS ABOUT THE PROPOSED TOLL ROAD MERGER

May 15, 2003

HECK INTRODUCES LEGISLATION TO BAN CABINET OFFICERS FROM USING STATE FUNDED CHAUFFEURS

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May 15, 2003

HOLZAPFEL AND DECROCE SAY EXECUTIVE COMMISSION ON ETHICAL STANDARDS SHOULD REVIEW BILLBOARD DEALINGS

NOTE THAT LEVINSOHN/JOSEPHSON DRAFTED NEW ETHICS GUIDELINES

Assemblymen James Holzapfel and Alex DeCroce today said that the Executive Commission on Ethical Standards should look at whether the billboard dealings conducted by Gary Taffet and Paul Levinsohn during the McGreevey transition violated a section of the Governor’s ethics guidelines dealing with outside income for executive branch employees.

"The ethics order issued by Governor McGreevey specifically required that any outside income derived from investments or prior contractual and rental agreements must be approved by the Executive Commission on Ethical Standards," said Holzapfel, R-Ocean, Monmouth. "I would be interested to hear whether this order covers the billboard deals cut by Mr. Levinsohn and Mr. Taffet during the transition period."

According to the Governor’s press release when the new ethics order was issued the ethics commission must review these agreements, "to ensure that it does not create an appearance of impropriety or compromise the impartial execution of their duties."

Holzapfel said that this section would seem to be targeted at just the type of deals made by Levinsohn and Taffet, which now appear even more suspect in the wake of news reports that Paul Josephson, Levinsohn’s top deputy, and former transportation commissioner James Fox sought to cancel a number of lucrative billboard contracts shortly after McGreevey took office.

DeCroce, R-Morris and Passaic, noted that because Levinsohn and Josephson were responsible for drafting the guidelines, he suspects that a loophole may exist.

"I’m sure that officials in the Governor’s Office were aware when these guidelines were being drafted how they could impact their own personal business investments," DeCroce said. "But if these guidelines were truly meant to prevent the appearance of impropriety, I would think they would cover a deal cut by members of the Governor’s transition team."

Holzapfel and DeCroce said they do not believe a ruling on whether these activities were in violation of the Ethics Guidelines would in any way interfere with the criminal investigation of the matter currently being conducted by U.S. Attorney Christopher Christie.

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May 12, 2003

ROONEY: McGREEVEY’S INTEREST IN BLOCKING PAY TO PLAY SHOULD NOW BE CLEAR TO EVERYONE

Assemblyman John Rooney said Monday that in the wake of today’s Star Ledger story about Democrat fundraising practices it is clear that Governor McGreevey has blocked ‘Pay to Play’ campaign finance reform because it would cut off a prime revenue source for the Democrat Party.

"Given his track record I don’t think many people took at face value the Governor’s claim that he was blocking ‘Pay to Play’ campaign finance reform to make the proposal stronger," said Rooney, R-Bergen. "Today we learn that our skepticism was justified. It appears that while ‘Pay to Play’ has been stalled in the Assembly, the Democrats have been backing up the truck to load up on cash from state contractors."

The Star Ledger today reported that the Democrats have raised $2.3 million from state contractors since McGreevey took office. According to the news report that accounts for one of every five dollars raised by the Democrat State Committee.

"Legislation has been introduced that would address the Governor’s demand that ‘Pay to Play’ reform be extended to the county and municipal levels," Rooney said. "There is absolutely no excuse for this legislation to remain stalled."

Rooney encouraged the public to put pressure on the Governor to do what is right.

"We will continue fighting in the Legislature to reform our campaign finance laws, but I would also urge the citizens of this state to join the cause," Rooney said. "They should call the Governor’s Office and the offices of the Democrat legislative leadership and demand that the Democrats support this proposal and that the Governor sign it into law."

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May 12, 2003

MUNOZ TO ROBERTS: PUT MEDICAL MALPRACTICE REFORM ON THE ASSEMBLY AGENDA

ASKS ASSEMBLY MAJORITY LEADER TO SUPPORT REAL REFORM

Assemblyman Eric Munoz, M.D., Monday called on Assembly Majority Leader Joseph Roberts to place on the Democrat agenda legislation that would seek to resolve the medical malpractice insurance crisis through both capping lawsuit awards for non-economic damages and also protecting patients rights in the case of an adverse event.

"I am trying to do what is right for the people, not what is right for lawyers or what is right for doctors," said Munoz, R-Essex, Morris, Somerset, and Union. "If this crisis continues, the people who will be hurt first will be those living in the urban areas of our state, including Majority Leader Roberts’ district, as their access to health care diminishes."

According to a news story that appeared in the Monday editions of the Asbury Park Press, Roberts said that despite plans by doctors to rally at the Statehouse Thursday medical malpractice reform will not be on the agenda.

Munoz’s bill, A-3170, would cap non-economic damages at $250,000, place a 10-year statute of limitations on cases involving birth injuries, provide a two year window for a minor to bring action if it is discovered that an injury has been fraudulently concealed, require the filing of settlement agreements with the Division of Consumer Affairs, protect malpractice whistle blowers, and grant immunity to physicians acting in good-faith in response to requests for help in life-threatening emergencies.

"I want to send a strong message to the Governor and this administration about how devastating the impact of this crisis will be on the people of our state," Munoz said. "As more skilled physicians are forced out of the profession by the insurance crisis, patients will have a more difficult time accessing the quality of health care they need and deserve."

Munoz said the impact of this crisis will be felt first in urban areas of the state including cities such as Camden, which is represented in the Legislature by Roberts.

"I hope the Majority Leader will support me in fighting for legislation that will put an end to this crisis," Munoz said.

The bill also includes a "Patient Safety Plan" that would involve an ongoing analysis of patient safety practices, detailed reporting to the state of all preventable adverse events that occur in the health care facility, mandatory notification of patients if there is an adverse event, and encouraging health care professionals to anonymously report all adverse events and near-misses to the state.

The legislation has already been endorsed by the Medical Society of New Jersey.

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Assemblyman Eric Munoz, M.D. is a trauma surgeon and a professor of surgery at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey (UMDNJ). He was also Chairman of the Medical Practice Review Panel of New Jersey Board of Medical Examiners under Governors Florio, Whitman and DiFrancesco. He is also one of 10 people to serve on President Bush’s Minority Health Disparities Commission.

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May 8, 2003

Assemblywoman Rose Heck Thursday announced that she will be proposing amendments to legislation merging the administration of the New Jersey Turnpike and the Garden State Parkway."These amendments are designed to ensure that this merger will succeed at actually reducing bureaucracy and cutting costs," said Heck, R-Bergen. "We have to make sure that this merger isn’t used for patronage purposes and that we aren’t simply trying to grab funding for other projects."The amendments proposed by Heck for A-3392 would delete the word "indirectly" from the definition of highway projects, thus prohibiting the use of toll road revenue for highway projects not directly related to continued operation of those toll roads."This should be about saving money, not diverting toll road revenue to other projects totally unrelated to the operation of these highways," Heck said. "I would not want to see this merger used to fund completely unrelated projects such as infrastructure upgrades needed for the proposed Newark arena."Another amendment will require projects to be approved by the Legislature, similar to the way in which Green Acres projects are chosen, or presented to the Legislature for review and approval. This legislative oversight, to me, is a fairer approach to the manner in which these dollars acquired through bonding, are used by the Department of Transportation.Heck’s amendments would also require that the new Authority use the bidding procedures currently used by the New Jersey Highway Authority, which the towing industry has testified are more fair and allow for a more comprehensive review of competing bids.As for ensuring experienced management of the new authority, Heck’s amendments would require that two of the five public members appointed by the Governor have experience or knowledge of the operation of the Garden State Parkway."I believe this merger is an excellent opportunity to cut costs and streamline management," Heck said. "But I believe we must tighten up these sections of the legislation to make sure the merger process is not abused or mismanaged."Heck pointed to recent concerns about the award of contracts for law firms to serve as bond counsel for the refinancing that is central to the merger of the two authorities."The merger has not even taken place yet and we have people raising questions about whether the politically connected will be profiting from this plan," Heck said. "We need to be careful to draft a bill that will be immune to these suspicions."

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May 8, 2003

Legislation sponsored by Assemblyman George F. Geist that would increase the penalties for child labor law violations and establish the Child Labor Law Enforcement Fund was released today by the Assembly Labor Committee."Violations of the state child labor laws are unacceptable and I believe the best way to combat both current and future violators is to increase monetary fines for such violations," said Geist, R-Camden, Gloucester. "Increasing these penalties then depositing the fines into a Child Labor Law Enforcement Fund would be an added assurance that our state’s youngest employees are protected."Geist added that his bill also would appropriate $1 million to the Fund."Currently there are less than five full-time positions to oversee more than 100,000 New Jersey workplaces for a child labor law violations," Geist said. "Between allocating $1 million and depositing the additional fines into the Child Labor Law Enforcement Fund, my measure would make it possible to increase the number of full-time staff positions devoted to child labor law enforcement to more than 23."New Jersey’s children deserve an increased presence protecting their interests in the workplace," Geist added. "This measure boldly states that New Jersey will not tolerate child labor law violators."The measure, A-119, was released by a 5-1 vote and now heads to the Assembly Appropriations Committee for consideration.

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May 7, 2003

HOLZAPFEL QUESTIONS HEAVY STATE POLICE PRESENCE IN CAMDEN AND NEWARK WHILE VITAL HOMELAND SECURITY NEEDS GO UNADDRESSED

STATE SHOULD CONSIDER REVISING ITS CURRENT POLICE DEPLOYMENT

Responding to budget committee testimony Tuesday from Attorney General designee Peter Harvey, Assemblyman James Holzapfel today questioned why the state has assigned 300-plus state troopers to urban centers such as Camden and Newark, while manpower needs in other parts of the state – including at nuclear power plants and airports – go unaddressed.

"It is unacceptable to me that our entire state is doing without adequate state police manpower for homeland security needs, while 300 state troopers have been set aside to patrol cities with existing full-time police forces," said Holzapfel, R-Ocean. "There has been no shortage of money flowing into these cities in the past year, yet for some reason they continue to drain vital state police manpower."

Harvey testified Tuesday that the state could lose 300 troopers to retirement this year, and that he believes the state could use an additional 300 troopers to address homeland security needs. He also testified that the state has 300 troopers assigned to urban centers such as Camden and Newark – cities that have their own full-time police forces.

It was also noted that the State Police provide no protection for the state’s nuclear power facilities, including the Oyster Creek facility located just south of Holzapfel’s legislative district.

Holzapfel pointed out that the Legislature last year approved a $175 million aid package for Camden and that the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey approved an airport lease agreement with the city of Newark that included a $300 million down payment.

"It seems to me that the logical way to approach this problem is for these cities to take the extraordinary funding they have received in the past year and use that to provide adequate police protection for their own citizens," Holzapfel said. "This would then free up the state police manpower necessary to carry out important, statewide homeland security details such as protecting our nuclear power plants and airports."

Holzapfel pointed out that just last year the Governor proposed cutting state police protection for rural and suburban towns – many of whom don’t employ full-time police forces – because of its cost to the state.

"It makes no sense that the Governor would be so concerned about the cost of state police protection in rural towns that truly need the help, yet he shows no concern for the cost of this ‘urban’ deployment," Holzapfel said. "It seems like the Governor is more concerned about taking care of his political patrons in Camden and Newark then looking out for the state as a whole."

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May 5, 2003

DIGAETANO URGES CONGRESS TO PASS ‘WOMEN’S CANCER RECOVERY ACT OF 2003'

In an effort to ease the physical and financial burden of cancer recovery for women throughout New Jersey, Assembly Republican Leader Paul DiGaetano today urged Congress to support the "Women’s Cancer Recovery Act of 2003," introduced by Representative Frank LoBiondo earlier this year.

"In 2003 alone, breast cancer will be diagnosed in 212,600 American women and men, and it will kill approximately 40,200 individuals," said DiGaetano, R-Bergen, Essex, Passaic. "Early detection and consistent treatment are key to beating cancer, and this bill would help ensure that insurance companies provide adequate recovery coverage.

"Perhaps most important for cancer recovery is accuracy of diagnosis and the thoroughness of inpatient treatment," DiGaetano added. "Group health plans and health insurers should be required to cover this extensive recovery care."

DiGaetano said LoBiondo’s measure would require group health plans and health insurance issuers to provide coverage for secondary consultations for breast cancer diagnoses and a minimum hospital stay for mastectomies and lymph node dissections.

"In 2000, I sponsored a measure requiring health benefits coverage for annual mammographies for women over 40, and this legislation makes another step toward improved cancer care in New Jersey," DiGaetano said. "‘The Women’s Cancer Recovery Act of 2003' would increase the odds of recovery, provide better health coverage for cancer patients and ultimately give New Jersey’s women a fighting chance against cancer."

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May 5, 2003

DIGAETANO FIGHTS FOR VETERANS’ BENEFITS FOR THOSE WHO RECENTLY SERVED IN MIDDLE EAST

Assembly Republican Leader Paul DiGaetano today introduced legislation that would extend veteran eligibility to the New Jersey men and women who served in Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom

"These individuals left their homes and families to serve their country in the Middle East, and they deserve veteran status for their bravery," said DiGaetano, R-Bergen, Essex, Passaic. "My measure would elevate the men and women who served in Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom to the rank that so many other New Jersey individuals claim – proud veteran."

Under the measure, A-3555, any individual who served at least 14 days in the theater of operations of either campaign would be eligible to receive state veterans’ benefits. This status would ensure a retirement allowance under the Teachers’ Pension and Annuity Fund of the Public Employees’ Retirement System and the purchase of additional military service credit in the Police and Firemen’s Retirement System.

"New Jersey sent thousands of troops to the front lines of both Operation Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom and they deserve our support back home," DiGaetano said. "This measure would be a means for the state to recognize these men and women for their heroism and dedication to their country."

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May 5, 2003

Legislation sponsored by Assemblyman George Geist that would require the State Board of Education to adopt core curriculum standards in the area of technology was signed into law Monday by Governor McGreevey.

The new law calls on the board to convene a committee comprised of educators, business persons, parents, and Department of Education personnel to develop standards that will emphasize technology education.

"We must ensure that New Jersey school children are being adequately prepared for the fast-paced technology driven environment in which we now live," said Geist, R-Camden, Gloucester. "The ability to understand and utilize modern technology has become so essential in the workplace that we would be doing our children a disservice not to emphasize its importance in the same way we do math or science curriculums."

As part of the bill, the committee that will create the new technology curriculum will study the standards recommended by the International Technology Education Association and those standards employed by other states. The committee also will hold at least one public hearing in the northern part of the state, and one in the southern part of the state.

Geist this Thursday will be presented with an award from the Technology Educators Association of New Jersey during their annual awards banquet at the East Brunswick Hilton.

"I want New Jersey’s technology standards to be second to none, and to do so we must not only seek the input of the experts in this field, but we must be prepared to listen to and learn from parents, educators and school administrators throughout our state," Geist said.

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May 5, 2003

CHATZIDAKIS-BODINE INTRODUCE MEASURE RECOGNIZING TROOPS SERVING OVERSEAS

Assemblymen Larry Chatzidakis and Fran Bodine introduced a resolution today that would recognize and honor troops for their service overseas.

The resolution, AR-274, expresses the General Assembly’s support and appreciation for United States military personnel serving overseas.

"Our troops deserve our full support and gratitude for the job they are doing throughout the world," said Chatzidakis, R-Burlington. "Their recent valor in Iraq demonstrates the commitment servicemen have to their country and to the protection of the American people."

"Not only do we have troops involved with Operation Iraqi Freedom, but also those that remain an integral part of Operation Enduring Freedom, helping in the fight against terrorism." said Bodine, R-Burlington. "There are servicemen stationed in Iraq, Afghanistan, South Korea, the Balkans, Indonesia, and other places worldwide that eschew the conveniences of home to safeguard and defend America and its values."

"Those in the military sacrifice a great deal— their safety, nearness of family and the comforts of American life to endure hardship and danger while protecting our citizens," Chatzidakis added. "The least we can do is extend our gratitude and appreciation to these hardworking men and women in our military."

The resolution was introduced and sent to the Assembly Military and Veterans’ Affairs Committee, where it awaits approval.

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May 2, 2003

MERKT SAYS LATEST SUPREME COURT ABBOTT RULING SHOULD OPEN THE DOOR FOR NEW FUNDING FORMULA

IF ABBOTT IS FLEXIBLE, AS COURT HAS NOW DEMONSTRATED, WHY NOT GO BACK TO THE DRAWING BOARD FOR A FAIRER FUNDING SYSTEM

Assemblyman Rick Merkt Friday responded to the latest Abbott ruling from the New Jersey Supreme Court by saying that he believes the court has now opened the door for the state to address school funding in a way that will protect taxpayers in suburban and rural school districts.

"If the Abbott decision is not so firmly rooted in the constitution that its implementation can’t be altered based on annual fluctuations in state budget conditions, then perhaps we can make changes that will help financially strapped suburban districts," said Merkt, R-Morris. "It would appear that the court is permitting the state some flexibility here, and the administration should take advantage of this opportunity."

The Supreme Court ruled this week that the state and the Education Law Center must enter into mediation regarding a state request to delay implementation of whole-school reform and certain supplemental program funding.

This decision came one year after the Court had ruled that the state could delay implementation of some Abbott ‘requirements’ – a decision, that at the time, had the approval of the Education Law Center.

"If in fact the Abbott requirements are not set in stone by the constitution, but instead are open to negotiation before the courts, then perhaps now is the time to reassess how we have been funding education," Merkt said. "The result of the Abbott v. Burke rulings has been a funding system that takes tax dollars out of rural and suburban communities and puts them into failing programs in these 30 urban districts – sometimes with per pupil funding in the Abbotts reaching as high as twice the state average."

Merkt said this has left many suburban and rural districts with inadequate state funding – a problem that has been the driving force behind New Jersey’s growing property tax crisis.

"These rulings have undermined the Court’s original assertion that all of these programs are required by the constitution as part of a ‘thorough and efficient’ education," Merkt said. "The McGreevey administration should use this opening to revise the state funding formula and to come up with a system that treats all school districts more fairly."

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May 1, 2003

Following up on questions he asked during the Tuesday meeting of the Assembly Budget Committee, Assembly Republican Budget Officer Joseph Malone sent a letter Thursday to Department of Community Affairs Commissioner Susan Bass Levin, requesting additional information on her office staff and salaries.

At Tuesday’s hearing Malone asked Levin for information about any employees working for DCA who are being paid by other state agencies or divisions.

"During this hearing I asked you some questions regarding staff members in your office who were being paid by other agencies," Malone, R-Burlington, Monmouth, Ocean and Mercer, writes. "At the time you did not have any information as to how many staff members you have who are paid by other agencies while performing job duties associated with your office."

"This letter is to formally request that you provide me with a detailed list of all staff members in your office who are compensated from other divisions or agencies," the Malone letter continues. "One example might be anyone who serves as a driver in your office who is paid from the payroll of another agency. This list should include specific job titles and salaries."

A copy of the letter is attached.

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April 30, 2003

Assemblyman Mike Doherty Wednesday said that he supports Governor McGreevey’s decision to add a group of five Hunterdon County streams to a list of waterways given new protections from pollution and development.

"The state has an obligation to protect the environmental health of these important waterways," said Doherty, R-Warren and Hunterdon. "This is an initiative that will be crucial to maintaining the quality of life that Hunterdon County residents have come to enjoy."

Doherty said he would work with McGreevey and DEP Commissioner Bradley Campbell to implement the stream protection program. McGreevey announced on Tuesday that he would be setting in motion the process for designating the five streams for "Category One" protection.

Once the stream segments have been identified and hearings have been held on the matter, development and industrial discharges will be limited in those areas. The streams being studied are the Wickecheoke Creek, the Lockatong Creek, the Nishisakawick Creek, the Little Nishisakawick Creek, and the Harihokake Creek.

"This is an important step toward maintaining clean water and preserving open space throughout this region of the state," Doherty said. "While I have had some disagreements with the Governor on a variety of other issues, this is one time where I would like to applaud his efforts."

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April 29, 2003

DiGAETANO ASKS SIRES TO ACT ON PROPOSAL REQUIRING VOTER REFERENDUM ON INCOME OR SALES TAX HIKE

Assembly Republican Leader Paul DiGaetano Tuesday sent a letter to Assembly Speaker Albio Sires asking that he post for a vote legislation requiring that any increase in the New Jersey income or sales tax be approved by a voter referendum.

"This amendment ensures that voters have a direct voice in decisions about how much of their money government can spend," DiGaetano, R-Essex, Passaic, Bergen, writes in his letter. "If the Governor and the Legislature believe that increasing these two broad-based taxes is the only way to balance the budget, they should be prepared to make that argument directly to the voters."

Under the legislation introduced by DiGaetano, ACR-160, the New Jersey Constitution would be amended so that any proposed increase to the state income or sales tax would first have to be placed on the ballot for voter approval.

"I introduced this legislation, ACR-160, on February 27, and would like to have it considered by the General Assembly in time for the constitutional amendment to be placed on the election ballot for consideration by the voters this November." DiGaetano writes in his letter.

A copy of the letter is attached here.

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April 28, 2003

MERKT TO OFFER LEGISLATION ALLOWING PEOPLE TO JOIN THE "TAX ME MORE" CLUB

IF YOU WANT TO PAY MORE TAXES, GO AHEAD AND SIGN UP

Responding to last Wednesday’s press conference in which a group of wealthy New Jerseyans said they would be willing to pay higher income taxes to help bolster the state budget, Assemblyman Rick Merkt said today that he is working on legislation that will allow them to do just that, without forcing the rest of New Jersey’s residents to pay more in taxes.

"While I believe most New Jerseyans feel they are paying too much in taxes, I would not want to deny those who feel otherwise the opportunity to pay more," said Merkt, R-Morris. "I am drafting legislation allowing individuals who wish to do so, to voluntarily pay a greater percentage of their income to the state."

Merkt said he will be drafting legislation to create a voluntary, "Tax Me More Fund" into which a taxpayer could agree to pay more taxes. The money collected would be put into the general fund, or if the taxpayer specified that the money should go to reduce the state’s property tax burden, it would be dedicated to that purpose.

Such a proposal is not unprecedented and the state of Arkansas actually created such a fund in 2001. Other states, including Iowa, Kansas, and Virginia, have explored the same idea.

"Imposing an across the board income tax increase, or even one affecting only those families in the upper income brackets, would be devastating at a time when our economy is already struggling," Merkt said. "Many of those who would be hit by a so-called ‘millionaire’s tax,’ are in fact small business owners who help create jobs and keep our economy going."

Merkt said he is looking into the possibility of introducing the legislation when the Assembly returns for voting sessions in May.

"I don’t think that increasing taxes at a time when the economy is struggling is the way to close a budget gap," Merkt said. "But in light of last week’s press conference, I am willing to allow this small group of individuals who feel they have the ability to pay more to do so, if it will make them feel better."

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June 28, 2003

DiGAETANO: ASSEMBLY REPUBLICANS ARE PRESENT AND READY TO DO BUSINESS, JUST WAITING FOR DEMOCRATS

GOP LEADER SAYS HIS CAUCUS IS PREPARED TO VOTE ON BUDGET

Assembly Republican Leader Paul DiGaetano today issued the following statement as his Republican caucus waited in the General Assembly chamber for the Democrats to act on the Fiscal Year 2004 budget proposal:

"The members of the Assembly Republican caucus were called to Trenton today to act on the Fiscal Year 2004 budget proposal. The members of my caucus have reported to the Assembly chamber and are present and ready to get down to business.

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June 25, 2003

DiGAETANO AND ALTAMURO SAY WHISTLEBLOWER LAW SHOULD PROTECT DOT OFFICIAL FROM McGREEVEY’S WRATH

LAW SHOULD APPLY TO OFFICIAL WHO TESTIFIED BEFORE THE SENATE ABOUT BILLBOARD LEGISLATION

Assembly Republican Leader Paul DiGaetano and Assemblyman Stephen Altamuro today said that the state’s whistleblower statute should protect a State Department of Transportation official who told a Senate Committee Tuesday that a proposed billboard tax is nothing more than damage control for the McGreevey administration.

"Mr. Norton is a 39-year employee of the Department of Transportation, and if he believes department officials are giving misleading information to a legislative committee he has every right to step forward and tell the truth," said DiGaetano, R-Essex, Passaic, and Bergen. "If Governor McGreevey believes workers should be free to speak the truth about what is going on in the workplace, he should not be targeting this individual."

According to media reports William Norton, the state Department of Transportation’s director of outdoor advertising, testified before the Senate Budget Committee yesterday that information given last week to the Assembly Budget Committee by department officials was inaccurate.

Specifically, Norton said it is not true that there has been a proliferation of billboards in the state, and that the real reason for the proposed billboard tax was damage control in the wake of allegations that two former McGreevey administration officials used a position of influence to win approval for billboards as part of a private business venture.

Following the testimony, McGreevey told the media that Norton’s appearance was "grossly inappropriate," and said he was going to have state ethics officials investigate whether it was proper for Norton to testify.

Assemblyman Stephen Altamuro, who has been closely following the billboard story, because one of those billboards was erected in Washington Township, Gloucester County, despite a township ordinance in that town prohibiting billboards, said that state officials must feel free to testify truthfully before legislative committees.

"It is imperative that we get honest answers from state officials about legislation we are poised to enact, and when an employee comes forward to provide accurate information to the Legislature, they should not be punished for doing so," said Altamuro, R-Gloucester, Camden. "Governor McGreevey claims to be a defender of workers rights and employee protections, but it appears he doesn’t want to take the same approach in his own workplace."

DiGaetano and Altamuro said that they believe Norton’s testimony may be protected by the state’s whistleblower law.

Under N.J.S.A. 34:19-3, "An employer shall not take any retaliatory action against an employee" because the employee, "provides information to, or testifies before, any public body conducting an investigation, hearing or inquiry into any violation of the law, or a rule or regulation promulgated pursuant to law . . ."

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