May 27, 2004

MERKT: WEINBERG’S LATEST ‘PAY-TO-PLAY REFORM’ BILL WILL NOT SOLVE THE PROBLEM

Assemblyman Rick Merkt today said that the revised pay-to-play bill now being proposed by Assemblywoman Loretta Weinberg is just another attempt by the Assembly Democrats to skirt the real issue and avoid enacting comprehensive reform.

"A comprehensive, top-to-bottom pay-to-play bill already exists and has already been passed by the State Senate," said Merkt, R-Morris. "Instead of acting on that legislation, the Assembly Democrats are spending a tremendous amount of energy finding ways to create a bill filled with enough loopholes to allow this practice to continue."

According to a Gannett State Bureau story the Assembly Democrats are working on a new pay-to-play bill, to be sponsored by Assemblywoman Weinberg, that would ban campaign donations only on no-bid contracts and only for the specific government that hired them.

Merkt said that even competitive bidding can be influenced by pay-to-play because there are multiple reasons why a low bid contract can be rejected, allowing the governing body to steer the contract to a contributor.

"This bill looks like a loophole in the making," Merkt said. "It will simply allow money and rewards to be funneled through various levels of government."

"This bill will still allow big-time donors to state legislative or gubernatorial candidates to be rewarded with contracts at the county or municipal level or vice-versa," Merkt said. "What is to stop someone from giving a contribution to Democrats in Camden County in exchange for a contract in Democrat-controlled Gloucester County?"

Merkt said that there has been no definitive statement from OLS, or any other independent source, that the comprehensive pay-to-play bill that already passed by the Senate is unconstitutional and that Democrats are raising those concerns simply to justify their refusal to advance the bill.

#####

May 24, 2004

Assemblymen Kevin O’Toole and Bill Baroni today announced they intend to introduce legislation that will put a stop to the practice of campaign contribution "bundling" whereby a contributor can exceed contribution limits by raising money from others and delivering it as an "intermediary" at a fundraiser.

"The type of fundraising known as ‘bundling’ is a clear attempt to circumvent campaign contribution rules," said O’Toole, R-Essex, Passaic and Bergen. "Not only can these individuals contribute amounts greater than the established campaign limits, but they can do so anonymously by delivering bundles of money from individuals other than themselves."

O’Toole and Baroni were responding to a story in today’s edition of The Star Ledger about an upcoming fundraiser for Governor McGreevey and how contributors and the Governor are getting around campaign contribution limits for the event.

According to The Star Ledger, access to the Governor’s "exclusive fundraiser" is limited to those who raise $100,000. Individuals are currently limited to contributing $25,000, so this fundraiser will require attendees to either act as "intermediaries" and deliver contributions from others, or spread their contributions to various campaign committees at the state, county or local level.

One lobbyist is quoted as saying, "This is the inner-inner circle," and that the Governor "knows you are there and he knows you are with him."

"This is exactly the type of fundraising practice that has convinced the public that the system is broken," said Baroni, R-Mercer, Middlesex. "We say there are campaign contribution limits, but then big donors are encouraged to find ways to exceed those limits in order to get personal access to the Governor. It is wrong and it should stop."

The proposed O’Toole-Baroni bill will make a violation of the campaign contribution limits a Fourth Degree Crime, and would for the first time create a definition of "intermediaries" while making the practice of bundling a Third Degree Crime.

"The public’s trust in government is at an all-time low," said O’Toole. "These types of fundraising practices serve only to further undermine the public’s confidence in its elected leaders. This bill will put a stop to this practice."

#####

May 24, 2004

GREGG SAYS IT IS CLEAR THE DEMOCRATS ARE ONLY WILLING TO ADVANCE ETHICS-LIGHT REFORM PROPOSALS

SAYS TODAY’S PACKAGE FALLS WELL SHORT OF REAL REFORM

Assembly Republican Conference Leader Guy Gregg today said he was disappointed that while strong, comprehensive reforms proposed by Republicans gather dust on a shelf, the Assembly Democrats are only willing to advance weak ethics proposals that will have minimal impact in cleaning up Trenton.

"Republicans have introduced strong ethics reforms ranging from bans on dual office-holding to comprehensive nepotism reform to a total ban on pay-to-play," said Gregg, R-Sussex, Morris and Hunterdon. "But rather than post those comprehensive measures for a vote today, the Democrats offered up only ethics-light proposals."

Gregg noted that loopholes exist in many of the Democrat proposals and that other proposals simply codify what the Election Law Enforcement Commission (ELEC) already does. One bill, A-23, calls on ELEC to conduct random audits of records kept by legislative agents – audits that ELEC already conducts.

He also pointed to A-15 which bans nepotism within the executive branch. The bill would not prohibit family members from working for other departments within state government, fails to address nepotism at the county or local level, and fails to address loopholes in the legislative nepotism ban.

"The public is demanding that we provide real ethics reform, including a complete ban on pay-to-play," Gregg said. "While Republicans were generally supportive of the proposals offered today, we recognize that this falls well short of the reform the public demands."

Gregg said today’s agenda was far more show than substance.

"If we stand any chance of restoring the public’s trust in its elected officials, we need to offer reforms that have a real impact," Gregg said. "These bills are nothing more than an effort by the Democrats to distract attention from their refusal to advance pay-to-play reform. We will do our best to keep attention focused on that more substantive issue."

#####

May 24, 2004

DeCROCE: REPUBLICANS WAITING FOR DEMOCRATS TO SCHEDULE MAIN EVENT ON ETHICS REFORM

Assembly Republican Leader Alex DeCroce said Republicans are supporting today’s package of ethics bills with the understanding it is the best that will be put forth by the Assembly Democrats, but that today’s effort does not constitute comprehensive reform.

"Some of these bills are weaker versions of already introduced Republican bills, and others will have virtually no impact on the process," said DeCroce, R-Morris, Passaic. "While we do not oppose the bills on today’s agenda we refuse to mislead the public into believing this is real reform."

Members of the Republican caucus prepared a substitute bill for A-12 which would have added a provision banning pay-to-play at all levels of government. That effort was defeated on a procedural vote by the Democrat majority.

"Once again we used what tools the minority has at its disposal to try to advance pay-to-play reform," DeCroce said. "It is unfortunate that the Democrats insist on repeatedly blocking these efforts."

"Until the Democrats allow a vote on comprehensive, top-to-bottom pay-to-play reform, the rest of these bills are just a sideshow," DeCroce added. "Pay-to-play reform is the one measure that can drive a sledgehammer through the wall of campaign cash that is blocking good government in Trenton."

Republicans offered an amendment on A-15 that would have extended this nepotism bill to all levels of government and closed loopholes in the legislative anti-nepotism law passed last session.

"Had we not put pressure on the Democrats to enact pay-to-play, I doubt we would have seen even the marginal reforms that were offered today," DeCroce said. "Therefore we intend to continue fighting for stronger reforms and to continue putting pressure on the Democrats."

#####

May 20, 2004

ASSEMBLY REPUBLICANS SEEK A SOLUTION TO THE PROPERTY TAX CRISIS

Republican legislative leaders met with concerned citizens this evening to discuss whether direct property tax relief programs are an effective way to combat rising property taxes.

Deputy Republican Leader Steve Corodemus led the Assembly Republican Policy Committee’s discussion on how best to establish property tax reform in New Jersey.

"Soaring property taxes are threatening to make New Jersey unaffordable for many homeowners," said Corodemus, R- Monmouth. "We are facing a statewide meltdown and we desperately need to find a way to bring reform to our failing tax structure."

Deputy Republican Leader Corodemus was joined by Assemblyman Richard Merkt, Assemblywoman Charlotte Vandervalk, and Assemblyman David Russo to discuss how best to approach escalating property taxes.

"It is appalling the average property tax bill increased by 15% over the past two years," added Corodemus. "We need to look beyond Trenton and ask the public to offer their views and suggestions on how best to approach developing a plan to bring long-term property tax reform to New Jersey."

Dan Clifton, Executive Director of Americans for Property Tax Reform, also attended the public hearing. He examined the local impact direct property tax relief programs such as NJSAVER and the Homestead Rebate have on Bergen County communities. He reported that for every $2.50 paid in income taxes, Bergen County only receives $1 in property tax relief.

This evening’s meeting is especially relevant because Governor McGreevey has proposed raising income taxes in an effort to expand property tax rebate programs.

"This is the second in a series of hearings we are holding on the important topic of property taxes," Corodemus said. "We haven’t come to any conclusions concerning how best to reform our property tax system. However, we did learn that raising one tax to lower another isn’t helpful for the residents of Bergen County."

#####

May 20, 2004

PROPOSAL HAS BECOME ALL ABOUT BACKROOM DEALING

Assembly Republican Conference Leader Guy Gregg today said that the Highlands Water Protection and Quality Act, is increasingly becoming an issue about who can cut the best deal, and less of an issue about what is best for the environment.

"The concerns of the residents in the Highlands region have been completely ignored," said Gregg, R-Sussex, Morris and Hunterdon. "Not one issue regarding the impact on property values, the affect on property taxes, or the sprawl this bill will fuel in surrounding communities has been addressed."

Gregg said that when push came to shove the Highlands bill has become an opportunity for lawmakers to cut deals for their districts. The environmental and social merits of the proposal are now secondary.

He pointed out that the bill provides no funding for the hundreds of millions of dollars in land acquisition that will be required by this proposal.

"Providing a sufficient funding source for this proposal, the most glaring deficiency in this bill, has still not been addressed," Gregg said. "And we are yet to hear any good explanation about why we should be destroying property values and driving development into communities where it may not be welcome."

"No one has provided any evidence that towns in the highlands region are not doing an effective job of controlling sprawl on their own," Gregg said. "There is no reason for the state to impose these burdensome and destructive regulations on our communities when we have successfully managed sprawl in this region for years."

#####

May 18, 2004

GIBSON INTRODUCES VETERANS PROPERTY TAX RELIEF MEASURE

Assemblyman Jack Gibson recently introduced a bill that would amend the state constitution to gradually increase the veteran’s property tax deduction.

The bill, ACR-171, is a constitutional amendment that, if approved by voters of the State, would increase the veterans’ property tax deduction gradually to $500.

"We appreciate all that our veterans have sacrificed for this country, and by increasing the property tax deduction for them, we show our immense gratitude," said Gibson (R-Cape May, Atlantic, Cumberland)

The veterans’ property tax deduction was last increased in 1999, when the amount of $50 was raised to the current deduction of $250 over the past four years. Gibson’s legislation would double the deduction amount over a period of ten years in $25 increments each year until it reached $500 in 2014.

"By increasing the deduction amount incrementally over 10 years, we are approaching property tax relief in an economical and common-sense manner," Gibson added. "Our veterans deserve property tax relief that will help them remain in the Garden State, and this legislation is just one more way to offset the high cost of property taxes while remaining fiscally responsible."

The bill would have to be approved by the Legislature, where it would then be put on the ballot for voters to approve in the general election.

# # # # #

May 17, 2004

DeCROCE THANKS SIRES FOR OFFER OF CO-SPONSORSHIP ON ETHICS BILLS, BUT EXPRESSES CONCERNS ABOUT LACK OF DETAILS

Assembly Republican Leader Alex DeCroce today sent a letter to Assembly Speaker Albio Sires saying that while he appreciates the opportunity for Republicans to co-sponsor bills in the Democrat ethics reform package, he could not advise his caucus to do so with many of the details of the bills still in question.

"I appreciate your offer to consider Republican co-sponsorship of these draft proposals," DeCroce writes. "Please allow me to reciprocate by offering to consider requests by Assembly Democrats to cosponsor any of the Republican reform legislation that has been awaiting action in the Assembly."

Sires sent a letter to DeCroce late Friday explaining that a number of the Democrat reform proposals would be considered at an Assembly State Government Committee meeting on Wednesday of this week and that Republicans would be welcome to sign-on as co-sponsors of those bills.

DeCroce pointed out that none of the Democrat bills have been formally introduced meaning that the details of the bills are still unknown. This means it is also not known if the substantial weaknesses and loopholes present in many of those bills have been corrected.

"I thank you for your kind offer regarding sponsorship," DeCroce’s letter concludes. "But I will recommend to the Republican members of the Assembly that they decline to attach their names to draft proposals about which so many questions and uncertainties exist."

#####

May 17, 2004

ASSEMBLY REPUBLICAN COMMITTEE MEMBERS ABSTAIN ON HIGHLANDS VOTE CITING FUNDING QUESTIONS

ALSO CONCERNED ABOUT IMPACT ON PROPERTY OWNERS

Assemblyman John Rooney and Assemblyman Larry Chatzidakis, Republican members of the Assembly Environment & Solid Waste Committee, today abstained on the Highlands Water Protection and Quality Act citing questions about funding for the proposal and concerns about the impact on property owners.

"I am supportive of the concept of preserving the Highlands and protecting its water supply," said Assemblyman John Rooney, R-Bergen. "I even considered signing-on as a co-sponsor of this legislation. Unfortunately, I cannot vote for this measure today without having some of these concerns resolved."

Rooney, a sponsor of bills protecting steep slopes and watershed buffers, said that he is particularly concerned that the bill contains no identified funding source for land acquisition of these acres of land in the Highlands Region.

Both he and Chatzidakis noted the proposed funding from the realty transfer tax would only support the Payment-In-Lieu-Of-Taxes (PILOT) program created by the bill – not the actual purchase of land.

Chatzidakis said that the lack of a funding source in the bill leaves the door open for a tax increase in the near future to support the cost of the bill. Without such a funding source he said other regions of the state might also be denied funding to which they are entitled through the Green Acres program – despite language in the bill indicating otherwise.

"There is only so much money in that program to go around," Chatzidakis noted.

He also said he was concerned that this bill would provide compensation to property owners in the Highlands that was not made available under similar circumstances to property owners in the Pinelands region of South Jersey.

"I do not want to vote for a bill that has no identified funding source for the acquisition of this land at a time when we have an administration that has routinely turned to tax increases to balance the state budget," said Chatzidakis, R-Burlington. "There are many details about this legislation that are yet to be worked out, and I’m not sure the impact of this proposal on this region of the state has been fully considered."

Rooney and Chatzidakis pointed out that when Republicans controlled the Legislature they approved shore protection legislation and the state’s Green Acres program, but they did so with a deliberate, well-planned approach.

#####

May 17, 2004

BLEE MEASURE TO EXCLUDE VETERANS’ PENSIONS FROM PAAD QUALIFICATIONS CLEARS COMMITTEE

Veterans’ entitlements would not be included in annual income calculations that determine a senior citizen’s prescription-aid program eligibility, under legislation sponsored by Assemblyman Frank Blee that was approved today by the Assembly Senior Issues Committee.

The bill, A-1343, excludes veterans’ entitlements from income for determination of PAAD (Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Aged and Disabled) program eligibility. Veterans’ entitlements include, but are not limited to, veterans’ disability payments and veterans’ pensions provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs.

"With this legislation, veterans who miss the income cutoff solely due to their veteran payments will not be turned away for PAAD," said Blee (R-Atlantic). "They should not be forced to chose between their veterans benefits and the PAAD program."

"The exorbitant price of prescription drugs is quite a burden for many seniors in our communities," continued Blee, "and for those who would qualify for PAAD otherwise, were it not for their veteran entitlements, this legislation would bring considerable relief."

Under current law, residents of the state are eligible for the PAAD program if they are on Social Security disability or are 65 years or older and have an annual income of less than $16,624 if single and $20, 383 of married.

"Seniors living month by month on veterans’ pensions or veterans’ disability should not be

kept out of the PAAD program when you consider the income limits in place here. Our veterans have sacrificed so much for our country, and this bill is the least we can do to express our gratitude." 

The bill was approved by a vote of 6-0 and now heads to the Assembly Appropriations Committee.

# # # # #

May 13, 2004

Assemblywoman Alison Littell McHose today said that the lack of a funding source to support the Highlands Water Protection and Quality Act is a major obstacle that could prevent the bill from ever being successfully enacted.

"Everyone wants to see the water supply in the Highlands region protected and we all want this region to be saved from overdevelopment," said McHose, R-Sussex, Morris and Hunterdon. "This legislation will not accomplish any of those goals if it is so deficient that it can’t be enacted."

McHose said that while she continues to be concerned about the impact on property owners and taxpayers, her main concern at this time is that the bill still contains no funding source for the land preservation or payment in lieu of taxes programs to be created under the act.

The assemblywoman said that the lack of an identifiable funding source means that either the state will not have the money to implement the proposal, or that legislators may be forced to vote for a tax increase to support the program after they have already voted to approve the bill.

"Every time Governor McGreevey needs money for a program he either turns to borrowing or higher taxes – neither of which is fiscally sound," said McHose. "I simply do not believe this legislation will fly until legislators know what the funding source will be for this program."

McHose said providing compensation for residents in the Pinelands region – a condition apparently set forth by some members on both sides of the aisle – may consume even more state revenue.

"The pricetag for this proposal could climb quite high before all is said and done," McHose concluded. "It is not too much to ask that we know how this bill will be funded before we move forward."

#####

May 13, 2004

O’TOOLE CALLS ON ATTORNEY GENERAL TO BLOCK PROPOSED ATLANTIC CITY NEEDLE EXCHANGE PROGRAM

Assemblyman Kevin O’Toole today called on Attorney General Peter Harvey to intervene and stop an effort by Atlantic City Mayor Lorenzo Langford to illegally establish a needle exchange program for heroin addicts.

"There is no question in my mind that a needle exchange program would be a flagrant violation of both the spirit and letter of state law," said O’Toole, R-Essex, Passaic, and Bergen. "The Attorney General has an obligation to enforce the law and should act immediately to stop this proposed program."

Langford recently instructed Atlantic City Health and Human Services officials to look into the possibility of creating a needle exchange program in the city.

The Atlantic County Prosecutor, Jeffrey S. Blitz, announced yesterday that his office had reviewed the proposal and determined that such a program would be a violation of state law. City officials claim that they intend to move forward with the proposal.

"No person is above the law and that includes elected or appointed officials in Atlantic City," O’Toole said. "Creating a needle exchange program would be up to the Legislature and the overwhelming sentiment of the Legislature has been against creating such a program."

O’Toole noted that the Attorney General acted quickly in March to stop marriage licenses from being issued in Asbury Park to same-sex couples in violation of state law, and that he should take the same steps in this situation.

"In that case the Attorney General threatened city officials with criminal prosecution," O’Toole said. "He should make it clear now, going to court if necessary, that the state will not allow city officials to violate the law in this case."

#####

May 13, 2004

BLEE-CONOVER INTRODUCE LEGISLATION TO STABILIZE PROPERTY TAXES IN PINELANDS PRESERVATION AREAS

In an effort to ease the local property tax burden, Assemblymen Frank Blee and Kirk Conover today introduced legislation that provides property tax stabilization for certain municipalities in the Pinelands region.

"Protecting and promoting the responsible use of our State’s environmentally sensitive regions is a common goal," said Blee, R-Atlantic. "However, we also need to compensate those communities whose economic stability is negatively impacted by these environmental protection efforts."

The Blee-Conover measure provides State payments to certain communities in the Pinelands area in lieu of property taxes. Their initiative is similar to the one that compensates municipalities affected by the Highlands proposal.

"This is a quality of life issue for the residents of Southern New Jersey," said Conover, R-Atlantic. "Homeowners in South Jersey are no less important than those residing in the Highlands region. It is unconscionable to consider North Jersey municipalities without consideration of South Jersey. This is a matter of fairness and the State has an obligation to consider their financial needs as well."

Assemblymen Blee and Convoer said they have introduced this legislation because the restriction in taxable properties has resulted in lost revenue, forcing many municipalities to raise property taxes.

"This legislation rectifies a problem that has been plaguing South Jersey for years," added Blee. "While great attention has been paid to regional growth areas, our preservation municipalities continue to need our help. It is critical that we speak out for our smaller towns."

#####

May 13, 2004

BLEE/CONOVER BILL CREATING TASK FORCE TO IMPROVE TREATMENT OF MENTALLY ILL OFFENDERS ADVANCES

Legislation sponsored by Assemblymen Frank Blee and Kirk Conover that would create a

task force to better the treatment of mentally ill offenders was approved today by the Assembly Law and Public Safety Committee.

The bill, A-2518, would create the "Task Force to Improve the Treatment of Offenders with Mental Illness." The task force would make recommendations to the Commission to Review Criminal Sentencing on the most effective means of treating nonviolent offenders with mental illness.

"Individuals with mental illness who commit crimes are often overlooked for treatment, even though their illnesses may be one of the contributing factors to the crimes they commit," said Blee (R-Atlantic). "This bill seeks to address that problem."

In New Jersey, approximately thirteen percent of offenders incarcerated to serve state prison terms have received a serious mental health diagnosis which requires treatment by mental health professionals.

"Our prisons are already seriously overcrowded, leading to insufficient resources available for the incarcerated mentally ill. Many are not receiving professional treatment, which not only harms themselves, but endangers prison staff and other inmates," Blee noted.

In addition, the task force would recommend ways to improve services to incarcerated offenders upon their reentry into society.

"This legislation would endeavor to find a way to coordinate the mental health and criminal justice systems together when treating offenders," stated Conover (R-Atlantic). "It is crucial that we come up with solutions that help the mentally ill before, during and after incarceration, as a way to reduce recidivism and facilitate optimal reentry into the community."

The bill was approved by a 6-0 vote and now heads to the full Assembly for consideration.

# # # # #

May 12, 2004

To exact retribution for repeated attempts by Assembly Republicans to force a vote on true pay-to-play reform, Democrats refused Assembly Republican Leader Alex DeCroce’s request to testify at the outset of the Assembly State Government Committee hearing on the issue today.

It has been a long-standing tradition to afford legislative leaders the opportunity to speak early at legislative committee meetings. But DeCroce accused Assembly Democrats of snubbing his request to speak at the beginning of the hearing, choosing instead to front-end load the list of those wishing to testify with Democrats parroting support for the "bogus" pay-to-play bill proposed by Assembly Speaker Albio Sires and Majority Leader Joseph Roberts.

"What we saw today was the corrupt Hudson and Camden county political machines wheeled into Burlington County for a road show," said DeCroce, R-Morris, Passaic. "It’s obvious the Democrats don’t want this to be a bipartisan effort and that they are prepared to go to any lengths to stifle an honest and open debate.

"If the message the Democrats wanted to send me was ‘See what will happen to you if you keep it up?’ the message was received...and it will be ignored. Republicans will continue to press the issue and expose the hypocrisy of Democrats who claim to champion ethics reform but are only interested in token changes that will allow them to conduct business as usual next year. The taxpayers want and deserve real reform. But all they are getting from the Democrats are lame excuses and artificial roadblocks."

DeCroce called the Democats’ continued support for "wheeling" money from one political machine to another a "disgrace" and their claim that it would be unconstitutional for the state to force an end to pay-to-play at the county and local level "ludicrous."

"If the state can outlaw money laundering and larceny at all levels, it can halt pay-to-play," DeCroce asserted. "The Center for Civic Responsibility Legal Task Force, headed by former Supreme Court Justice Gary Stein, a Democrat, found no validity to this ‘constitutional infirmity’ argument. It is nothing more than a smokescreen raised by the Democrats. This road show has become a farce. It’s time to vote for real reform now."

DeCroce reiterated that there will never be real property tax reform until pay-to-play ends. "The taxpayers will continue to pay the cost of inflated contracts and services until pay-to-play is abolished. The system is broken. Let’s fix it now."

# # # # #

May 12, 2004

O’TOOLE URGES STATE GOVERNMENT COMMITTEE TO ACT ON COMPREHENSIVE PAY-TO-PLAY BAN

The following is a statement from Assemblyman Kevin O’Toole submitted to the Assembly State Government Committee today regarding his legislation, A-1660, banning pay-to-play at all levels of government.

"I would like to begin by commending Chairman Steele for posting A-1657 and A-1660 on the agenda for discussion at today’s hearing. A bipartisan approach is the best way to enact meaningful comprehensive reform measures.

O’Toole was unable to attend due to a meeting with the state transportation commissioner in his district. His co-sponsor, Assemblyman David Russo, attended today’s hearing and testified.

#####

May 12, 2004

On January 23, 2003, Assemblyman Thomas Kean Jr. was serving his last day as a member of the General Assembly before moving over to the State Senate. Before leaving the Assembly, Kean made one last attempt to get Assembly Democrats to vote on his legislation banning pay-to-play.

Speaker Sires refused to recognize Kean’s attempt to bring pay-to-play up for a vote. Eventually the Democrats refused even to recognize Kean for an opportunity to publicly thank his family before he left to be sworn-in by the Senate.

The Democrats explained their reasoning for blocking pay-to-play that day:

"It’s so full of holes, it’s like a piece of Swiss cheese," Assembly Majority Leader Joe Roberts was quoted as saying. "It’s an insult to people who have a real commitment to campaign-finance reform."

That bill would have banned pay-to-play only at the state level.

Senator Kean and Assemblyman Kevin O’Toole later introduced a stronger version of the bill banning the practice at all levels of government in response to ‘conditions’ set forth by Governor McGreevey.

Today, the Assembly Democrats are advocating a bill that would – ban pay-to-play only at the state level.

#####

May 12, 2004

DeCROCE: PANTER PUTS PARTY BOSSES AHEAD OF TAXPAYERS

UNRESPONSIVE TO ETHICS LEGISLATION THAT ENDS WHEELING

Assembly Republican Leader Alex DeCroce said today Assemblyman Michael Panter is placating party bosses by supporting a pay-to-play bill that permits the corrupt practice of wheeling to continue.

"Given the huge sums of money that poured into Monmouth County from other counties during last year’s legislative races, I am not surprised that Assemblyman Panter is reluctant to support a measure that prohibits wheeling," said DeCroce, R-Morris and Passiac. "Assemblyman Panter masquerades as a strong proponent of ethics reform when it suits his needs but when he is called to take a firm stand on the issue he waffles."

The Democrat sponsored pay-to-play bill does not apply to all levels of government, still permits party bosses to funnel large amounts of campaign funds through county committees to different areas throughout New Jersey, and will not apply to next year’s election.

"Assemblyman Panter vowed to champion ethics reform but when pressured by the Democrat leadership he conveniently forgot the promises he made to the voters last November," added DeCroce. "Time and time again, Assembly Democrats, with the blessing of Assemblyman Panter, have made excuses and failed to deliver meaningful ethics reform."

DeCroce noted that in March, Assemblyman Panter and his Democrat colleagues failed to support a motion that would have brought a comprehensive pay-to-play bill before the Assembly for a vote. Assemblyman Panter also wavered when Assembly Republicans called on Governor McGreevey to force a vote on the pay-to-play bill that has been languishing in the Assembly State Government Committee.

"Today’s hearing was just another example of Assemblyman Panter cowering to party bosses," concluded DeCroce. "His apathy and unresponsive attitude smacks of the very behavior swore to champion against. He has embraced the status quo despite the enormous cost to taxpayers."

#####

May 12, 2004

AZZOLINA PROPOSAL ATTACKS PAY-TO-PLAY FROM ANOTHER VIEWPOINT

LEGISLATION AIMS TO PLUG LOOPHOLE BY CHANGING CONTRACTING PROCEDURES

Assemblyman Joseph Azzolina said today that Democrat leadership is failing to consider alternative proposals that aim to end the corrupt practice of pay-to-play.

"I believe that prohibiting campaign contributions from those individuals or corporations who do business with state, county, and local governments is an important first step," said Azzolina, R-Middlesex and Monmouth. "However, I think we should also pursue measures that change the way in which we reward professional service contracts."

Assemblyman Azzolina has introduced a bill that requires professional service contracts to be awarded pursuant to competitive contracting procedures. The measure, A-2442, also requires all billing departments to fully itemize services and submit a written statement of charges to ensure the terms of the contract are being met.

"I have introduced legislation that approaches pay-to-play reform from a completely different angle," added Azzolina. "It is disgraceful that government officials continue to use professional service contracts as compensation for those who loyally donate to their political campaigns."

The proposed legislation appears to be languishing in the Assembly Housing and Local Government Committee. Azzolina said the bill should be considered during one of the scheduled ethics hearings.

"It is my hope that Democrat leadership grant the Legislature the opportunity to consider this significant bill," Azzolina said. "This bill is designed to bring fairness to a system that for far too long has rewarded the highest bidders with desirable professional service contracts. We will only achieve meaningful and comprehensive reform when all the existing loopholes are eliminated.

"Public trust in elected representatives and the political system as a whole is rapidly diminishing," concluded Azzolina. "What is even more disturbing is the troubling impact this corrupt practice is having on New Jersey taxpayers. Every year, pay-to-play costs taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars." 

#####

May 11, 2004

GREGG: BILL BOOSTING BENEFITS FOR EX-TEACHERS MAY BE A BUDGET BUSTER

LEGISLATION IS MORE ABOUT POLITICS THAN POLICY

Assembly Republican Conference Leader Guy Gregg today said he is concerned about legislation passed Monday by a Senate committee that would allow public school teachers to become vested for post-retirement medical benefits after only five-years of service.

"This legislation is not sound fiscal policy, but instead an attempt by the Democrats to cater to the demands of the teacher’s union," said Gregg, R-Sussex, Morris and Hunterdon. "This proposal could put a dangerous strain on the budget and on state resources in the coming years."

In today’s edition of The Star Ledger, the state Division of Pension and Benefits says that by 2007, pensions and health benefits will make up 20 percent of the state budget. Locking-in these benefits for all teachers who work five years in the system will only make matters worse.

The Courier Post quotes Henry Matwiejewicz, a manager for the division, as saying that the division’s concern with the bill is, "the potential significant future cost increases that this bill may impose upon the state because it basically would handcuff the state."

"This Governor can’t balance the budget now without raising taxes and borrowing over a billion dollars," Gregg said. "How will we be able to balance the budget when pension and health benefits are consuming 20 percent of state revenue?"

"This is just one more example of the negative impact of special interest money on public policy," Gregg concluded.

#####

May 10, 2004

O’TOOLE ALARMED BY DRAMATIC CUT IN PAYMENTS FOR NURSING HOME CARE

Assemblyman Kevin O’Toole said that for the third straight year Governor McGreevey’s fiscally irresponsible budget will hit seniors particularly hard.

"Rather than reign in his reckless spending habits, the Governor has chosen to slash the nursing home reimbursement program," said O’Toole, R-Bergen, Essex, and Passaic. "Last year, Governor McGreevey cut the Senior Tax Freeze program in half and it appears this year he is going after nursing homes."

Under the fiscal year 2005 budget, Governor McGreevey has proposed a significant reduction in the level of funding New Jersey provides to nursing homes as reimbursement for the cost of care for Medicaid- eligible seniors and the disabled.

Last week, the Assembly Budget Committee met with the Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) to discuss their fiscal priorities for the 2005 fiscal year. During the meeting, DHSS reported that Governor McGreevey intends to slash the reimbursement program by $46.7 million.

"I am disappointed with the Administration’s decision to cut such an important program," added O’Toole. "This reduction will affect essential services and have far reaching ramifications."

O’Toole said he also finds the cuts troubling because for every dollar reduction in state funding, there is a corresponding reduction in federal Medicaid reimbursement. The anticipated combined loss of federal and state dollars totals $95 million. The 40^th Legislative District stands to lose $7.3 million.

"Our seniors are a valuable resource for our community and we should provide those services that help them lead healthy and productive lives," concluded O’Toole. "A large cut like this hinders a nursing facility’s ability to provide vital services for our senior and disabled citizens."

# # # # #

DEMOCRATS TO PUBLIC ON HIGHLANDS BILL:  STAY HOME, WE’VE HEARD ENOUGH FROM YOU

May 7, 2004

PENNACCHIO SAYS PORT AUTHORITY HAS MORE URGENT PRIORITIES THAN HELPING TO FUND A NEWARK ARENA

PORT AUTHORITY NEEDS FUNDS FOR SECURITY UPGRADES

As Newark creeps toward a final deal on building an arena in Newark, Assembly Republican Appropriations Officer Joe Pennacchio today said it is disturbing that a funding scheme for the arena was developed using Port Authority funds that could have been better spent on security needs in the port region.

"The Port Authority gave the City of Newark a sweetheart lease deal to help fund a new arena while there are many concerns about security in the region," said Assemblyman Pennacchio, (R-Morris/Passaic). "This $200 million would have been better spent upgrading security on our bridges, tunnels and at Newark Airport than on a sports palace in Newark."

Last year, the City of Newark reached a lease deal with the Port Authority for Newark Liberty International Airport. As part of that lease deal the city of Newark is receiving a $210 million payment to be used on a proposed new arena for the New Jersey Devils in Newark.

"There is no higher priority than keeping our citizens safe," Pennacchio said. "It concerns me that the Port Authority would reach a deal specifically designed to help Newark build an arena at a time when there are security upgrades needed for port facilities."

Pennacchio has criticized Newark for spending $210 million to build a hockey arena, while accepting $600 million from New Jersey taxpayers as a subsidy.

Pennacchio also cited an article in The Star Ledger, indicating that the McGreevey administration appears prepared to kick-in up to $30 million in state taxpayer funding for transportation upgrades that will be part of the arena project.

"If the City of Newark has the extra money to waste on a sports arena, they certainly don’t need help from the rest of the state’s taxpayers for basic city services and education costs," Pennacchio said. "Directly or indirectly, New Jersey taxpayers are supporting this arena project."

#####

May 5, 2004

ALERT:

ETHICS BILLS MISSING! NO WORD ON THEIR WELL-BEING

MAYBE THEY’RE IN MAINE??

It has been 50 days since the press conference announcing their 25-point ethics package, and the Assembly Democrats have STILL not released copies of the bills to be discussed at TOMORROW’S Assembly State Government Committee meeting.

With just 24-hours to go until the hearing, there is now reason to be concerned. We in the Assembly Republican Office can only hope the bills will be found in good shape and made available to the public in time for tomorrow’s hearing.

#####

May 4, 2004

PENNACCHIO EXPRESSES OUTRAGE OVER APPROVAL OF NEWARK ARENA BONDING SCHEME

Assembly Republican Appropriations Officer, Joe Pennacchio, said it is outrageous that the local government review board today approved a fiscally irresponsible Newark arena bonding scheme after giving the public little time to review the 300 page bonding application.

"The public had virtually no opportunity to review this proposal and yet it was rushed through the approval process in one day," said Assemblyman Pennacchio, R-Morris and Passaic. "There are many questions about this proposal that have not been answered and clearly the state does not want to give the public ample time to raise those questions."

The local government finance review board called a special meeting for this afternoon to consider an application that allows the Newark Housing Authority to issue $270 million of debt to pay for the Newark Arena.

The proposal was approved by the board despite concerns about the lack of a bidding process for the bond issuance and the possibility that the proposal could open the door for rampant pay-to-play throughout the process.

"Governor McGreevey and the Democrats want to rush this proposal through so that their friends and political cronies can benefit from the contracts that will be handed out as part of the bonding process," Pennacchio said. "The fact that the bond issuance will not be open to bid will only increase the cost of this proposal."

Pennacchio also took exception to the idea that the money generated by the bond issuance will be held in escrow while the details of the arena proposal are worked out with the New Jersey Devils.

"Here is a city to which state taxpayers send $600 million annually to help keep down property taxes and provide school and city services," Pennacchio said. "And now they plan to sit on nearly $300 million while they decide if it is feasible to build a hockey arena? No matter what the McGreevey administration says, this deal is rotten for the taxpayers of New Jersey."

#####

May 4, 2004

DeCROCE SENDS LETTER TO SIRES SEEKING MORE BIPARTISAN SPIRIT FOR ETHICS REFORM HEARINGS

ASKS, AGAIN, THAT REPUBLICAN BILLS ALSO BE CONSIDERED

Assembly Republican Leader Alex DeCroce today sent a letter to Assembly Speaker Albio Sires once again requesting that the Speaker consider allowing ethics reform bills sponsored by Republicans to be considered as part of the Assembly State Government Committee’s ethics reform hearings.

In the letter, DeCroce, R-Morris and Passaic, congratulated the Speaker on his first hearing last week and noted that Republicans were able to provide what even Democrat members of the committee described as "very valid" input.

"I continue to believe that the committee process will produce a better product if a truly bipartisan approach is taken instead of the current approach of considering only one party’s draft proposals," DeCroce said in his letter. "Republicans remain ready and eager to have our own legislation considered and critiqued along with the Democrat draft proposals, so that the best possible reforms will emerge from committee."

DeCroce noted that when Republicans held hearings on the Rosenthal Commission ethics and campaign finance reforms in 1992, both Democrat and Republican bills were considered. He also pointed out that the Senate State Government Committee will be considering both Democrat and Republican ethics bills this Monday.

"I would also note that even though the Democrat proposals were announced over a month ago, as of this writing Republican members have not been provided with copies of the draft proposals on this Thursday’s agenda," DeCroce said. "I would greatly appreciate your assistance in obtaining copies of those proposals, as well as the pay-to-play, contracting, and taxpayer campaign financing proposals said to be on the committee’s next two agendas."

#####

May 4, 2004

GREGG: MORE EVIDENCE THAT McGREEVEY INCOME TAX HIKE IS BAD BUSINESS FOR NEW JERSEY

May 3, 2004

THOMPSON OFFERS WORLD WAR II VETS A CHANCE TO VISIT NEW MEMORIAL IN WASHINGTON D.C.

OFFERS FREE TRIP FOR UP TO 600 NEW JERSEY WWII VETERANS

Assemblyman Sam Thompson today announced that he was helping to organize a free bus trip to visit the just opened World War II Memorial in Washington D.C. for 500 to 600 New Jersey World War II Veterans.

Thompson said he was moved to assemble the bus caravan by a news article two weeks ago regarding the planned opening of the Memorial. That article indicated only a quarter of the 16 million who served in World War II were still alive to see the memorial and that as many as 55,000 may perish in the coming months because of their advanced age.

"I was only ten when the war ended but I still have vivid memories of the newsreel reports from the battle fronts," said Thompson, R-Middlesex, Monmouth. "I still remember the gallantry of our forces, the many sacrifices at home and abroad, and most of all, how united our country was."

Thompson said he wished the same spirit of unity was present in America today.

"I agree with Tom Brokaw that this was in fact ‘The Greatest Generation,’ and we owe these veterans a tremendous debt of gratitude," Thompson said. "This tribute is long overdue and organizing this trip is my way of making a small payment on that debt."

For this purpose Thompson has formed the "WWII Vets – America’s Greatest" committee and sought corporate support to fund this effort. A total of $31,000 has been committed to fund 12 buses and meals for 600 passengers.

"The corporate response has been enthusiastic," Thompson said. "And in addition to that support Assemblyman Joseph Azzolina and I are each funding a bus for this event."

Thompson said that the corporate sponsors of the event include Amboy National Bank, Raritan Bay Medical Center, Kara Homes, N.J. Natural Resources, K. Hovnanian, Jersey City Power and Light, Princeton Public Affairs, Public Service Electric and Gas, Verizon, Schering Plough, and Horizon Blue Cross, Blue Shield.

The trip is planned for Wednesday, May 19 and will be assisted by the V.F.W, American Legion, and the Jewish War Veterans. Buses will depart that morning at approximately 7:30 a.m. from a variety of locations including Old Bridge, Middletown, Monroe, Perth Amboy, Somerville, Union County, and Cherry Hill. Other locations may be added.

Individuals interested in determining space availability on the buses can contact Assemblyman Thompson’s office in Old Bridge at 732-583-5558.

#####

June 22, 2004

DeCROCE: DEMOCRAT SPENDING OUT OF CONTROL

REPUBLICAN CAUCUS UNITED IN OPPOSITION TO BUDGET

Assembly Republican Leader Alex DeCroce issued the following statement this afternoon regarding the Fiscal Year 2005 budget proposal that the General Assembly is expected to vote on after midnight:

"The budget before us today would have been almost unimaginable just three years ago. A 17-percent spending increase and a four-billion dollar increase over last year’s budget is unprecedented.

June 22, 2004

The budget to be voted on by the Legislature this week contains plenty of bad news for Garden State residents. Just as the budget will mean more taxes and fees for those seeking health care services and buying new homes, it will also sock it to anyone who owns a phone.

Under this part of McGreevey’s plan to balance the budget, a tax will be imposed on all phone bills, both wireless and regular land line service. The proposal would levy a tax of $0.90 per month, per phone number.

Under this $116 million increase, the taxes to be raised include:

- $46 million from cell phones

- $70 million from land lines

This tax would have a considerable effect on businesses operating on multiple phone lines, to say the least. Here’s yet another example of the McGreevey budget plan making a business-friendly environment a tough task to achieve here in New Jersey .

What’s more, families would be paying approximately eleven dollars per year for each phone number. Most New Jersey families certainly have more than one phone number; for those with a house phone line, a line for Internet access, and a cell phone, this tax would average thirty-three dollars a year.

So forget about installing that extra phone line for your teenage daughter; it’ll cost you more than you think.

#####

June 21, 2004

GREGG BLASTS PASSAGE OF INCOME TAX HIKE

Assembly Conference Leader Guy Gregg issued blistering criticism of the ‘millionaire’s tax,’ which was approved today by the General Assembly.

"There is no other way to put it, except to say that Governor McGreevey lied." stated Gregg, R-Sussex, Morris, Hunterdon. "He made continual promises not to raise income taxes, and lo and behold, here’s a tax!"

The bill, A-100, increases the gross income tax rate for taxpayers with taxable income over $500,000 and temporarily adjusts the withholding tax.

"This is bad fiscal policy, especially when forty percent of the entities that will be affected are small businesses, which contribute so much to our economy. Fu

rther, this is not a ‘millionaire’s tax,’ as the Democrats like to say, since this will affect those making half as much.

"The Democrats are trying to disguise this bill as property tax relief for homeowners, but even families with gross incomes over $200,000 – an average two-income family in New Jersey – will get absolutely no relief from this legislation," Gregg continued.

"At the end of the day, McGreevey and the Democrats have broken their no-tax pledge, which is simply