February 28, 2005
GREGG
SAYS THE SENATORS CORZINE AND LAUTENBERG'S SUPPORT FOR BUSH TAX CUTS
IS VITAL
Assembly Republican Conference Leader
Guy Gregg said today that it is imperative that Senators Jon Corzine
and Frank Lautenberg support the renewal of President Bush’s
income tax cuts.
“President Bush’s tax cuts have had
a tremendous impact on
New Jersey
’s economy,” said Gregg,
R-Sussex, Hunterdon, and Morris. “These tax cuts have provided our state with a much needed
economic boost and continue to help with our recovery efforts.”
Americans for Tax Reform reported that
New Jersey
has benefited from the federal tax
cuts. From 2001 to 2004,
taxpayers across
New Jersey
have received over $17 billion in
relief.
“The federal tax cuts help offset
soaring state and local taxes,” added Gregg. “Failure to renew
the Bush tax cuts will result in economic stagnation.”
According to Americans for Tax Reform,
New Jersey
taxpayers received the second
largest savings as a result of the Bush tax plan.
“On average, taxpayers in
New Jersey
saw a nearly $4,000 savings,”
concluded Gregg. “With
savings like that, Senators Corzine and Lautenberg cannot afford to
oppose the renewal of the federal tax cuts.”
#####
February 25, 2005
DeCROCE SAYS REPUBLICANS ARE PREPARED TO VOTE ON PAY-TO-PLAY
MONDAY
ASSEMBLY REPUBLICAN CAUCUS WILL BE IN
TRENTON ON MONDAY
Assembly Republican Leader Alex DeCroce issued the following
statement today regarding his intention to have the Assembly
Republican caucus present and prepared to vote on pay-to-play this
Monday:
"I was very encouraged when Acting Governor Codey announced a
‘special session of the Legislature’ on February 28th to
deal with pay-to-play reform. I thought this offered an opportunity
for both houses of the Legislature to sit down and discuss the
merits of the various pay-to-play bills that have been introduced. I
also believed this would give us an opportunity to vote on
comprehensive pay-to-play reform.
"It was with great disappointment that we learned two days later,
via a letter from the office of the Governor’s counsel, that the
Acting Governor did not intend to call a special session, but
instead was calling in the Senate to vote on a weaker pay-to-play
bill already approved in the General Assembly.
"Regardless of the Democrats’ intentions, my caucus will be
present in Trenton on Monday. There is a scheduled quorum call and
my members will be available at that time to vote on a comprehensive
pay-to-play bill. We will make a motion during Monday’s quorum call
to bring that bill to the floor of the Assembly for a vote.
"It is my hope that the Democrats will join us in this effort.
After more than 70 indictments of public officials, there is no
excuse for us to not take action. The people of New Jersey are
demanding real reform. With the help of the Democrat majority, the
General Assembly can deliver that reform on Monday."
#####
February 24, 2005
ROONEY INTRODUCES TWO-BILL CAMPAIGN FINANCE REFORM PACKAGE
DESIGNED TO HALT WHEELING
Assemblyman John Rooney today introduced two pieces of campaign
finance legislation designed to eliminate the corrupting influence
of money in the political process and to restore public confidence
in the electoral system.
"The public believes that the political process in this state is
controlled by the influence of money," said Rooney, R-Bergen.
"Unfortunately, money has become the dominate factor in all of our
elections and legitimate debates about public policy are
overshadowed by the influence of this campaign cash."
The first bill introduced by Rooney, A-3874, would put an end to
the practice of "wheeling" by banning contributions between county
and municipal political party committees.
"We are seeing the campaign finance laws of this state
manipulated by the ‘wheeling’ process," Rooney said. "It is wrong
for individuals to circumvent campaign finance laws by using these
local campaign committees to funnel money around the state."
The second bill, A-3875, would create a system of public
financing for legislative races starting in 2007. This bill would
provide that any candidate who raises and expends $2,500 in a
primary, or $5,000 in a general election would be entitled to
receive a $2 to $1 match from a newly created Legislative Elections
Fund.
The candidate could receive no more than $50,000 for a primary
and $100,000 for a general election. Candidates would be limited to
spending $100,000 in a primary election and $250,000 in a general
election.
"One way to take the focus off fundraising and to put it back on
the issues would be to limit the amount spent on these campaigns,"
Rooney said. "This bill would help to create a level playing field
and would minimize the influence of money on the electoral system."
Earlier today Rooney had joined with his Republican colleagues in
calling on the Democrats to approve a comprehensive pay-to-play ban.
He said that his bills along with this ban on pay-to-play will go a
long way toward restoring the public’s trust in government.
#####
February 24, 2005
DeCROCE
ASKS CORZINE TO URGE ASSEMBLY DEMOCRATS TO DELIVER 75% OF THEIR
VOTES FOR REAL PAY-TO-PLAY REFORM
Assembly Republican Leader Alex DeCroce today called on U.S.
Senator Jon Corzine to broker the same deal with Assembly Democrats
that he did with Senate Democrats on pay-to-play reform.
"Last week, Corzine urged Senate Democrats to produce 75 percent
of their votes for a weak pay-to-play bill and then match every
Republican vote one-for-one," DeCroce noted. "I’ll take that deal in
the Assembly in a heartbeat. In fact, I would settle for less. Let
Corzine use his influence on the Assembly Democrats to produce just
12 of their 47 votes on Monday and we can finally achieve what the
Senator says New Jersey deserves – a tough ban on pay-to-play at all
levels of government."
DeCroce said all 33 members of the Assembly Republican caucus are
ready to vote for comprehensive pay-to-plan reform when the Assembly
convenes for a quorum call on Monday.
"With the support of just a handful of Democrats, we can smash
the culture of corruption that was responsible for the sad spectacle
we witnessed in Monmouth County this week when the FBI led 11 public
officials off to jail in handcuffs for violating the public trust,"
DeCroce said.
"Jon Corzine says we need a
top-to-bottom ban on pay to play. Jim McGreevey said the same thing
when he was a candidate for governor, but he never followed through
on his promise. Is there any wonder why so many people are
suspicious of campaign promises? We don’t need to wait for another
gubernatorial election. If Corzine and his party are serious about
reform, then let’s get the job done now. No more rhetoric. No more
delays. No more excuses."
# # # # #
top
February 24, 2005
REPUBLICANS: GOVERNMENT SHOULD NOT BE FOR SALE IN NEW JERSEY
Members of the Assembly Republican caucus today challenged
Assembly and Senate Democrats to allow a vote next Monday on
comprehensive pay-to-play reform and to begin giving fair
consideration to the more than 50 other ethics reform bills that
have been proposed by Republicans and Democrats in the General
Assembly.
"Public officials are still being indicted, the public still
believes government is for sale, and the Democrat leadership is
satisfied passing a weak pay-to-play bill just so they can say
they’ve done something," said Republican Leader Alex DeCroce,
R-Morris and Passaic. "The public is not fooled by their charade and
will still demand real reform of the system."
Just this week nearly a dozen Monmouth County public officials
were arrested as part of a government corruption probe being
conducted by the U.S. Attorney’s office. This follows dozens of
other indictments of public officials in the past three years, raids
last year on the Governor’s Office and Democrat State Committee, and
on-going investigations into former McGreevey administration
officials.
"If we keep tinkering around the edges of this problem, we will
fail to put an end to this corruption," said Assemblyman Kevin
O’Toole, R-Essex, Passaic, and Bergen. "By passing my comprehensive
ban on pay-to-play, there will be no loopholes left to exploit and
no more excuses for this type of behavior."
The Republicans had already stated their intention to make a
motion at an Assembly Quorum Call next Monday for a vote on
O’Toole’s comprehensive pay-to-play reform bill. That bill would end
pay-to-play at all levels of government and would prohibit the
wheeling of campaign cash from one political organization to
another.
"The culture of corruption is present not just in Trenton, but at
all levels of government in places throughout this state," said
Assemblyman Bill Baroni, R-Mercer and Middlesex. "That is precisely
why we must pass a pay-to-play bill that bans this corrupt practice
at every level of government."
Monmouth County Assemblymen Steve Corodemus and Sean Kean said
that they were disappointed to learn of the arrests in their home
county and that this latest scandal has just served as added
incentive for them to push for tougher ethics laws in Trenton.
"Monmouth County is my home and unfortunately this type of
scandal taints every public official," said Corodemus, R-Monmouth.
"I do not want the public to continue thinking that government is
for sale. They should have confidence in their elected officials,
and to restore that confidence we need to enact tough, comprehensive
reform."
"The only way to put a stop to the corruption that has infected
every level of government is to pass a law that seeks to ban
unethical practices at every level of government," said Kean,
R-Monmouth. "Only a pay-to-play reform bill that affects every level
of government will send the message that corruption is no more
acceptable at the county courthouse than at the State House."
#####
February 22, 2005
DeCROCE SAYS MONMOUTH COUNTY ARRESTS HIGHLIGHT THE NEED FOR
STRONG ETHICS REFORMS
Assembly Republican Leader Alex DeCroce issued the following
statement today in response to the arrest of nearly a dozen Monmouth
County public officials, including three mayors, as part of a
federal investigation into government corruption in the county:
"Today’s arrests have once again put the public spotlight on
the issue of government corruption in New Jersey. This latest
scandal makes it clear that the culture of corruption so clearly
present in Trenton extends to many other parts of the state as well.
This scourge of political corruption infects both parties. It is
like a disease that is relentlessly eating away at the public’s
confidence in our public officials.
"My caucus has introduced more than 50 ethics reform bills,
almost all of which have been ignored by the Democrat leadership. We
also continue to push for a comprehensive ban on pay-to-play, a
proposal that also has been blocked by the Democrat leadership.
"Today’s arrests demonstrate that successful pay-to-play reform
must affect ALL levels of government – not just the state. The
current wave of corruption in this state does not stop in Trenton,
but can be found in counties and small towns across this state.
"I urge the Democrats to consider moving forward the ethics
reform package offered by my caucus, and I once again ask that they
consider a complete ban on pay-to-play at every level of government.
"Next Monday the Assembly Republican caucus stands ready to make
a motion to have a vote on comprehensive pay-to-play reform. I urge
the Democrats to join us in this effort. The public should wait no
longer for real reform."
#####
February 18, 2005
McHOSE
INTRODUCES BILL THAT ESTABLISHES TAX CREDIT FOR SMALL BUSINESSES
(
SPARTA
)- This week, Assemblywoman Alison Littell McHose
introduced legislation that would provide a one-time tax refund to those
taxpayers that have experienced an increase in income due to the sale of a small
business.
“Business owners, in particular, were hit hard last year with the so-called
millionaire’s tax,” said McHose, R-Sussex, Morris, and Hunterdon. “Under Democrat leadership, the pro-business climate once seen has
faded. This legislation is a first
step to undo the damage caused by excessive taxation.”
The measure allows a one-time refundable gross income tax credit for those
taxpayers who have paid state taxes at the highest marginal rate upon the sale
of a small business. The bill states
that a taxpayer can only take advantage of this tax credit after the third
taxable year of the gain and only if the taxpayer’s income did not exceed
$500,000 during any of those three taxable years.
“Most small business owners are not excessively wealthy and they should not be
punished simply because they experienced a one year windfall due to the sale of
their business,” added McHose. “With
the enactment of the Corporate Business Tax, the extension of the estate tax,
and the ratification of millionaire’s tax, the Democrat majority has
essentially demonized small business owners. This measure is a way to combat those anti-business policies.”
Assemblywoman McHose said that she looks forward to developing other policies
that would make New
Jersey
a desirable place to own and operate a small
business.
“I am an enthusiastic advocate of the business community,” concluded McHose. “Small business owners are an asset to this state and I will continue
with my efforts to create a pro-growth environment.”
#####
February 18, 2005
DeCROCE
TO CODEY: ASSEMBLY REPUBLICANS WILL BE IN TRENTON ON FEB. 28 TO MOVE
REAL PAY-TO-PLAY REFORM
Assembly Republican Leader Alex DeCroce today responded to a
letter from Acting Governor Richard J. Codey in which he serves
notice Assembly Republicans will use February 28th’s quorum call to
force vote on comprehensive pay-to-play reform.
A copy of the correspondence is attached.
#####
February 18, 2005
Dear Acting Governor Codey:
I am surprised and baffled by your letter
accusing me of “playing political games” with the issue of
pay-to-play reform.
As I recall the events of the past 48 hours,
you issued a letter and news release in which you clearly called for
a “special session of the Legislature” to deal with this issue on
February 28th. I immediately applauded your action and
recommended that we work in a bipartisan manner to enact tough,
comprehensive reforms similar to those you have supported as Senate
President in the past. These include top-to-bottom pay-to-play
reform of the type you voted for in 2003; a year-round ban on
“wheeling” that would extend provisions found in current law and
which you voted for in 2004, and protection of local reform
ordinances and additional reporting requirements identical to those
in a bill now pending in the Senate.
How does my support of reforms that you and
I have voted for in the past and that have been endorsed by the
presumed nominee of your party for Governor constitute “playing
political games” or be construed as an impediment to reform? Or am I
wrong to presume that you agree with Jon Corzine’s February 17th letter in which he endorses “an end to pay-to-play at every level of
government” and urges “all Senators – Democrats and Republicans” to
unite to end pay-to-play?
Mysteriously, your letter contains no
reference to the “special legislative session” you called on
February 16th nor explains whether or why you would
reverse your decision to summon such an historic joint session of
the Legislature to consider ethics reform. I find it hard to believe
that your choice of words was a mistake, or that every newspaper in
the state somehow got the story wrong.
Assembly Republicans will be in the State
House on February 28th, even if there is no “special
session of the Legislature.” We will be in the chamber for the
scheduled quorum call and at that time, with or without your support
or that of the Assembly Democrats, we will move to bring A-3442 to
the floor for a vote. This bill, sponsored by Assemblymen Kevin
O’Toole and Bill Baroni, does everything you
say you support. It was described by the Asbury Park Press in an
editorial today as the “superior” alternative because it would apply
to all levels of government and prevent “wheeling” in general
elections, not just in primaries.
You stated in your letter that it is “time
for all of us who have spoken out in support of pay-to-play reform
to match our voices with actions and our votes.” I could not agree
with you more. Therefore, your leadership this area would be
appreciated on February 28th. We would welcome your
support to help deliver the comprehensive reform the people of New
Jersey deserve now.
Sincerely,
Alex DeCroce
Assembly Republican Leader
February 17, 2005
O’TOOLE AND
BARONI SAY SPECIAL SESSION IS THE PERFECT OPPORTUNITY TO ADDRESS
REAL PAY-TO-PLAY REFORM
Assemblymen Kevin O’Toole and Bill Baroni today said that the
special session of the Legislature should be used to vote on
legislation that unequivocally bans pay-to-play.
"We commend Acting Governor Codey for
specifically calling both houses of the Legislature into special
session to address the corrosive practice of pay-to-play," said
O'Toole, R-Bergen, Essex, and Passaic. "I hope the Assembly
Democrat leadership uses this opportunity to once and for all ban
pay-to-play."
Agreeing with Republicans that change is needed,
Acting Governor Richard Codey has called for a special session of
the Legislature on Monday, February 28th to consider a
ban on pay-to-play.
"This extraordinary constitutional step
should only be used as a means to pass the most comprehensive,
top-to-bottom reform legislation," said Baroni, R-Mercer and
Middlesex. "It is essential that we use this momentous occasion
to restore public faith by permanently banning pay-to-play."
On Thursday, February 24th Assemblymen
Kevin O’Toole and Bill Baroni will provide the General Assembly
with 24-hour notice of their intention to have bill, A-3442,
relieved from the Assembly State Government Committee.
The rules of the General Assembly require that
24-hour notice be provided before a motion can be made to relieve a
bill from committee. After giving notice, O’Toole and Baroni
intend to make a motion to relieve the bill from committee at the
special session of the Legislature on Monday, February 28th.
At which time, Republicans expect overwhelming support from Assembly
Democrats to enact the most comprehensive pay-to-play reform.
"This bill absolutely prohibits loyal
campaign contributors from being awarded lucrative no-bid
contracts," added O'Toole. "It is time that Democrat
leadership finally take this issue seriously and allow for
meaningful ethics reform to be considered."
O'Toole and Baroni said that their legislation is
far more effective and comprehensive than the legislation supported
by the Democrat majority.
"Assembly Republicans stand ready to
act," concluded Baroni. "There is no better time than a
special session of the Legislature to take bold action to restore
public confidence in their elected officials. Finally, by enacting
this legislation, we can once and for all put an end to the culture
of corruption that continually tarnishes the image of our state's
government."
####
February 17, 2005
DeCROCE SENDS LETTER TO CODEY WELCOMING SPECIAL SESSION AND
CALLING FOR REAL REFORM
Assembly Republican Leader Alex DeCroce today sent a letter to
Acting Governor Richard Codey supporting his decision to call a
special session of the Legislature and asking that the session be
used to consider a comprehensive ban on pay-to-play.
In his letter DeCroce notes that Assembly Republicans have
already unanimously voted for the bill Codey wishes to post on the
28th, but that they support passing a much stronger,
comprehensive pay-to-play ban.
"It is my hope that this special session will address the
pay-to-play issue in its entirety – not simply A-1500/S-2052,"
DeCroce, R-Morris and Passaic, writes in his letter. "That bill,
while better than nothing, does not sufficiently address the
pay-to-play problem here in New Jersey."
DeCroce points out that the bill allows wheeling – unrestricted
transfers of funds among county party committees – to continue
during general elections. The failure of the bill to address
wheeling is significant because the law also fails to address
pay-to-play at the county and municipal levels.
"We can do better," DeCroce added in his letter. "My colleagues
and I are fully prepared to vote for a comprehensive pay-to-play
reform bill. All I ask is that you allow this bill to be voted on by
both houses as part of the special session on February 28. If you
can convince just 8 of your Democrat colleagues in our house to vote
for this bill, comprehensive pay-to-play reform will be a reality."
#####
February 17, 2005
Legislator
to Newark -- "Cancel Hockey Arena"
Morris Plains, NJ -- Assemblyman Joe Pennacchio (R-Morris,
Passaic) is calling on Newark to cancel plans to build the Devils
Hockey Arena. The Assemblyman contends that the Devils, as well as
all of hockey, have demonstrated that they cannot be counted on to
provide their "promised revenue."
Under the agreement which allowed Newark to underwrite the arena,
the Devils agreed to fund the venue based on future revenues.
Included was a 1% tax on the Devil’s team salary. "While the Devils
told the taxpayers they would pay 1% of the $60 million payroll, the
team is actively trying to reduce its payroll with a ‘$40 million
cap.’ This is only two-thirds of what was previously promised,"
added Assemblyman Pennacchio.
The Assemblyman has been an outspoken critic of the arena,
contending that the legislature should revisit the $700 million plus
the city receives in municipal and education aid. "If they can
afford to give $200 million to a nonexistent hockey team, the state
taxpayers deserve to get that same amount of money back," concluded
Pennacchio.
#####
February 16, 2005
GREGG
SAYS SCHOOL CONSTRUCTION COSTS MAY BE INFLATED BY PROJECT LABOR
AGREEMENTS
Assembly Republican Conference Leader Guy Gregg today said that
one reason for the rapid depletion of New Jersey’s school
construction dollars may be the mandatory Project Labor Agreements (PLA’s)
imposed by the Legislature three years ago.
"It is becoming increasingly clear that New Jersey is spending
far more than other states and school districts on its school
construction projects," said Gregg, R-Sussex, Morris and Hunterdon.
"I suspect that one factor that has driven up these costs are the
Project Labor Agreements now required on all state construction
projects."
This past weekend The Star Ledger reported that new
projects in the Abbott Districts are costing more than those in many
other school districts in other parts of the nation. Additionally,
with most of the $6 billion slated for the construction already
spent, less than half the new school projects needed in these
districts have been completed.
With the school construction program rapidly running out of
money, some are beginning to suggest that the Legislature may need
to make another massive financial contribution to the program in the
next year.
Gregg noted that all of these construction projects are now
required to be done as part of Project Labor Agreements. These PLA’s
were required on all public works projects as a result of a law
passed in 2002. They call for the use of only union labor and impose
other conditions.
"These PLA’s reduce the number of potential bidders and drive up
the costs of these projects," Gregg said. "If we are looking to cut
costs and make this school construction program as efficient as
possible, I’m pretty sure PLA’s have not been very helpful to that
end."
#####
February 15, 2005
MERKT: IF
DEMOCRATS WANT TO CENSURE SOMEONE, HERE ARE A FEW SUGGESTIONS
SAYS CENSURE OF RADIO HOST SHOULD TAKE BACKSEAT TO
SERIOUS ACTS OF OFFICIAL MISCONDUCT
Assemblyman Rick Merkt, responding to the decision by Democrats
to offer censure resolutions against those with whose words they
disagree, has sponsored a resolution censuring various former New
Jersey elected officials and political contributors for misdeeds
that have brought discredit on the state government and the New
Jersey political system.
"It is utterly hypocritical for Assembly Democrats to censure
someone for his free speech, regardless of whether or not we approve
of that person’s message," said Merkt, R-Morris. "This is especially
true given the failure of the Legislature to censure public
officials who have been convicted of crimes or forced from office in
disgrace."
On Monday Merkt introduced a resolution, AR-248, "censuring
various elected officials and political contributors for their acts
that have brought discredit on the body politic and caused harm to
the people and reputation of the State of New Jersey, and holding
such individuals accountable."
Last week Democrats passed a resolution censuring New Jersey
101.5 radio host Craig Carton for comments he made on the air
regarding Acting Governor Richard Codey’s wife. Merkt asked why
there was no censure resolution against the numerous public
officials who have violated the public trust.
"Certainly, breaking the law or abusing the power of your office
is more serious than saying something offensive on the radio," Merkt
said. "Why are we censuring private citizens exercising their first
amendment rights, but not public officials who have broken the law
and brought disgrace upon New Jersey?"
Merkt’s censure resolution includes former Governor Jim McGreevey,
former Assemblyman Anthony Impreveduto, Democratic fundraiser
Charles Kushner, former Essex County Executive Jim Treffinger, and
former U.S. Senator Bob Torricelli, among others.
#####
February 15, 2005
KEAN
LEGISLATION RECOGNIZING 60TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FORMATION
OF TUSKEGEE AIRMEN ADVANCES
A bill sponsored by the Eleventh District
Assemblyman Sean Kean, recognizing the 60th anniversary
of the creation of the advanced combat training program for the
Tuskegee Airmen, yesterday passed the Assembly Military and
Veterans' Affairs Committee.
"The Tuskegee Airmen played a vital role in
the effort to defeat the evil Nazi regime and fought valiantly to
help keep our country safe," said Kean, R-Middlesex and
Monmouth. "During World War II they courageously flew more than
15,000 missions and destroyed over 450 enemy planes. They are truly
American heros and deserve to be recognized for their service to our
country."
The Kean resolution, AR-221, recognizes the 60th anniversary of the formation of the Tuskegee Airmen combat training
program. The resolution honors the Airmen for their service,
bravery, and sacrifice.
"These soldiers not only bravely fought to
destroy Nazi Germany but they dedicated themselves to breaking down
barriers of racism at home and abroad," added Kean. "They
fought for this country despite having to continually endure intense
bigotry."
Kean noted that the 99th Fighter Squadron of the
Tuskegee Airmen is the only U.S. squadron to
have flown 200 bomber escort missions during World War II without
losing a single aircraft to enemy fire.
"It is only fitting to honor these men and their
families," concluded Kean. "Many of them made the ultimate
sacrifice for this country. Whether fighting the oppressive Third
Reich or combating the destructive forces of racism, these men
deserve our gratitude and respect."
#####
February 14, 2005
GREGG OPPOSES
MINIMUM WAGE INCREASE
Assemblyman Guy
Gregg today expressed his opposition to Assembly Bill 3781 which
raises the state minimum wage. The legislation enacts a two stage
incremental increase to $6.15 on October 1, 2005 and $7.15 on
October 1, 2006.
“A raise in the
current minimum wage will have a negative effect on everyone
involved,” explained Gregg (R-Sussex, Morris & Hunterdon). “This
bill is targeted at a very small percentage of New Jersey’s
workforce but the long term negative consequences will affect many
throughout our state."
According to the
Department of Labor 11,000 employees in New Jersey are currently making the minimum wage. Of those 11,000 employees one
thousand are full time.
“While at first
glance one would think this will benefit low income workers, when
further reviewed we can see that it will actually have the opposite
effect,” Gregg said. “An increase in the minimum wage will place an
undue burden on employers forcing them to resort to alternative
methods of compensation. This will result in price increases or
employee cutbacks or, the worst case, the loss of businesses here in
New Jersey.”
Assemblyman Gregg explained that according to the Employment
Policies Institute a 10% increase in the minimum wage causes a 2.1%
decrease in teenage employment. Furthermore, when minimum wages are
increased employers are forced to seek more skilled labor resulting
in job losses for less skilled employees. The resulting
disappearance of entry level jobs will take with them a gateway into
the labor force for many low-skill workers.
“Over the past five years Democrats have made New Jersey an
increasingly less hospitable place to do business,” Gregg stated.
“Runaway property taxes, the corporate business tax fiasco, and now this new proposed minimum wage
hike. When are we actually going to start doing something good for New Jersey’s
workforce and make our State a desired location for employers?”
A-3781 passed out of the Assembly Labor Committee with a vote
of 5-2.
# # # # #
February 14, 2005
PENNACCHIO SAYS NEW JERSEY IS NOT THE "MODEL"FOR SCHOOL CONSTRUCTION
OTHER DISTRICTS SAVE COSTS
ON UNIFORM SCHOOL DESIGNS
Assemblyman Joe Pennacchio today pointed to a story on model
school designs in Sunday’s edition of The Star Ledger as
providing more evidence that New Jersey is needlessly wasting money
on its school construction program and called on the state to review
how money is being spent on these new school buildings.
"It comes as no surprise that school districts in other parts of
the country have found ways to save money on school construction and
New Jersey refuses to follow their lead," said Pennacchio, R-Morris
and Passaic. "It would appear that our state is not even interested
in finding ways to save money."
A story in Sunday’s Star Ledger detailed how school
districts in Florida, Georgia, Philadelphia and Las Vegas have
adopted "model school designs" where schools are built based on a
small number of prototype designs to reduce the costs of new school
construction.
In Las Vegas more than 200 schools have been built since the
mid-1980's based on only three model designs. The total cost to the
district has been $5.6 billion. New Jersey’s $6 billion school
construction program in the 30 Abbott Districts is expected to run
out of money next year with only about 80 new schools being built.
A spokesman for the school construction program in New Jersey
said in this story that he doubts the "model school" concept would
save the state much money.
"For a program that is fast running out of money, it would make
sense that we try to find any possible savings no matter how big or
small," Pennacchio said. "If model schools aren’t the way to save
money, than we need some answers to how we can save some money in
these Abbott Districts. The state simply will not be able to afford
for much longer spending this amount of money in these districts."
#####
February 14, 2005
CARROLL
AND GREGG STATEMENT ON PUBLIC ADVOCATE
MEASURE WILL DO MORE TO HURT TAXPAYERS THAN TO
HELP
Assemblyman Michael Patrick Carroll and Assembly Republican
Conference Leader Guy Gregg today issued the following statement
regarding their opposition to legislation restoring the Office of
Public Advocate:
"On one of the rare occasions in which a needless and wasteful
governmental program was consigned to a well-deserved place on the
ash heap of history, the unlamented Department of the Public
Advocate met a long overdue death less than one decade ago.
"Proving, however, that old governmental programs never die - and
never fade away - the Assembly State Government Committee today
resurrects the corpse. Despite record deficits and runaway property
taxes, the Committee majority reanimates a creature which will,
inevitably, cost State taxpayers tens of millions and, if the past
is any guide, will bloat property tax levies with tens of millions
of dollars in litigation costs, while effecting policies contrary to
the good of the public the office ostensibly serves.
"It its previous incarnation, the Department of the Public
Advocated engaged in costly and counterproductive lawsuits, the
deleterious consequences of which continue to plague the Public. It
engaged, for instance, in lawsuits assertedly designed to increase
the supply of low and moderate income housing, the net effect of
which was to blight the suburbs with inappropriately dense housing -
four units of which were market rate for every "affordable" unit -
thereby undercutting urban revitalization initiatives, efforts to
preserve the environment, and property tax stabilization efforts.
"The Department found its genesis in the thought that policy
ought to be made by litigation. Such is clearly a foolish - indeed,
a dangerous - philosophy. Not one of the programs for which the
Department spent millions in litigation expenses could not have been
effected by a sympathetic Legislature. This end run around the
legislative process constitutes a fundamental assault on the very
essence of democratic self government.
"In the "findings" section, the Bill asserts that people at the
margins of society lack an effective advocate for their concerns. If
so, the solution lies in reforming those entities presently charged
with those undertakings. For instance, the Board of Public Utilities
exists for the very purpose of governing and regulating monopoly
utilities in the public interest. The wholly extraneous "Ratepayer
Advocate" effectively duplicates the BPU's role. If the interests of
the people are not being zealously safeguarded by the Attorney
General, he should be importuned to resign and be replaced by
someone who will.
"While paying lip service to the notion that litigation
constitutes a costly and ineffective means of resolving policy
disputes, history demonstrates that the Department repeatedly
resorted to litigation, contrary to the best interests of the public
it purported to serve. Indeed, the present Bill fairly drips with
references to litigation, lawsuits, and the like. The clear
intention of this proposal is to establish the Department as a
litigation engine.
"Notwithstanding the general objections, certain aspects of the
proposal merit unqualified support, in theory if not in practice.
For instance, the proposed Division of Citizen Relations merits
serious consideration. All too often, citizens, confronted with some
action on the part of government which significantly affects their
lives or property, confront an unresponsive if not hostile
bureaucracy seemingly unconcerned with the devastating effects
administrative action often entails.
"The difficulty, though, is that adding yet another governmental
official to the process offers no guarantee that the relevant agency
will mend its ways. State law already provides for an officer with
the responsibility to oversee Administrative agencies, to ensure
that they act in a reasonable, responsible manner. This officer
enjoys the title "Governor". The people also possess direct recourse
to numerous officials charged with ensuring that the Administration
recognizes and protects their interests. These officials occupy 80
Assembly seats and 40 Senatorial positions.
"If any of these officials fails to do his/her job - that is,
should the Governor fail to preside over an efficient, responsive,
and just administration, or if the elected representatives fail to
take the needs of their constituents seriously - they should be
replaced.
"And some of the provisions of the Bill are downright offensive.
The last thing that government should be doing is opening more
avenues for criminals to file vexatious and expensive suits, the
entire cost of which is bourne by the already overburdened
taxpayers.
"The entire concept of a nest of lawyers, effectively unchecked,
to decide for themselves what the "public interest" requires - and,
hence, to weigh in with the not-inconsiderable resources of the
State of New Jersey - is problematic at best. Elected officials, not
courts, craft policy and, hence, a Court should find evidence of the
State's policy not in the advocacy of an unelected "Public Advocate"
but in the expressions of the Legislature.
"Put simply, if a particular action involves a criminal offense,
the responsibility for prosecuting same rests with the Attorney
General. If it affects some policy of the State - beach access comes
readily to mind - such policy should be expressed by the Legislature
and, absent legislative action, is not a proper subject for
litigation commenced by an officious busybody.
"This entire proposal constitutes one long invitation to
expensive litigation. This proposal envisions one branch of
government suing another; the only possible "winners" as a result of
such misbegotten policies will be lawyers.
"The Department of the Public Advocate duplicates services
already rendered by other departments and, most importantly, by the
elected representatives of the people. It is little more than a
litigation engine, the costs of which will be bourne by the
unfortunate and overtaxed citizenry. The proposal fails to recognize
that policy making authority rests exclusively with the elected
branches and that litigation must never be employed for that
purpose.
"The Public Advocate was a rogue entity when first created and
abolishing it constitutes one of the signal accomplishments of the
past ten years. Its reanimation would be a grave error and, in times
of extreme fiscal austerity, the expense associated therewith simply
cannot be justified."
#####
February
10, 2005
BATEMAN
SAYS
U.S.
SAVINGS BONDS SHOULD REMAIN OFF LIMITS TO THE STATE
Assemblyman
Christopher “Kip” Bateman said today that Treasurer John
McCormac’s lawsuit against the federal government to take control
of unclaimed
U.S.
savings bonds that have stopped
earning interest is misguided.
“This is a blatant attempt by the Administration to find way to
raise revenue to help ease the budget mess they created,” said
Bateman, R-Morris and
Somerset
. “New Jersey Democrats have done a poor job of handling
their own financial matters, why should bond holders trust them with
managing their hard earned money.”
Newspapers
have reported that State Treasurer John McCormac has filed suit
against the federal government in an attempt to seize unclaimed
savings bonds that have matured. If the lawsuit is successful, the State would be able to earn
interest on the unclaimed savings bonds.
“Right
now, bond owners can go to any bank and receive cash on the spot for
their bonds,” added Bateman. “There
is no valid reason to make them jump through a hoop to get their
money.”
Bateman, a member of the Assembly Financial Institutions and
Insurance Committee, said that bond owners should not have to go
through the State to receive their money.
“Under this plan, bond owners could be forced to wait as long as
eight weeks to receive their money,” Bateman said. “Seniors who have invested in
U.S.
savings bonds should not be
penalized for being financially prudent and simply waiting for the
appropriate time to cash in their bonds.”
#
# # # #
February 10, 2005
BODINE SAYS SOUTH JERSEY COMMUTERS ARE STILL PAYING THE PRICE FOR
McGREEVEY
Assemblyman Francis Bodine today said he is outraged that South
Jersey commuters who use Delaware River Port Authority (DRPA)
bridges and trains will still be paying the price of the McGreevey
administration’s poor decisions for at least the next three years.
"The tolls and fares collected by the DRPA are supposed be used
to benefit the port region – not to pay off lawsuits created by
politically motivated decisions," said Bodine, R-Burlington. "Now
the DRPA is forced to pay over half-a-million dollars over the next
three years to settle this lawsuit."
Bodine was responding to a report in today’s edition of The
Star Ledger in which it is reported that the DRPA has agreed to
pay $545,000 plus interest over the next three years to settle a
lawsuit with a billboard company that lost its contract with the
agency when former Governor Jim McGreevey took office.
The contracts would have allowed the billboard firm operated by
Drew Katz to place 14 billboards on port authority property in New
Jersey and Philadelphia. Just before taking office McGreevey’s chief
of staff and his chief counsel – Gary Taffet and Paul Levinsohn –
started their own billboard firm in competition with Katz’s company.
Taffet and Levinsohn’s business dealings are the subject of a
federal investigation.
"The actions of the previous Democrat administration have once
again cost New Jersey taxpayers their hard earned income," Bodine
said. "The next time there is a toll or fare increase, South
Jerseyans will remember who they have to thank."
#####
February 9, 2005
THOMPSON WELCOMES EFFORTS TO ATTRACT VERIZON, BUT SAYS STATE HAS
MADE ITS JOB ATTRACTING JOBS MORE DIFFICULT
Assemblyman Sam Thompson today said that while he supports New
Jersey’s efforts to attract a new Verizon operations center and the
4,000 jobs it would help the state retain and attract, he believes
the state would have an easier sell if not for the anti-business
policies of the state’s Democrat leadership.
"Certainly we want to attract these jobs to our state, but maybe
we wouldn’t have to dangle $63 million in incentives if our state
wasn’t so unattractive to businesses," said Thompson, R-Middlesex,
Monmouth. "For three years our state has implemented anti-business
tax and regulatory policies and now we have a steep hurdle to
overcome in attracting businesses like Verizon."
Stories in today’s editions of The Record of Hackensack and The Star Ledger indicate the state is offering Verizon a
$63 million incentive package to entice the company to locate an
operations center in New Jersey. According to The Star Ledger the facility would allow New Jersey to keep 2,355 Verizon jobs in
the state while attracting nearly 2,000 new jobs.
Thompson noted that a report in CFO Magazine last year
rated New Jersey as one of the worst states in the nation in which
to do business based on its tax and regulatory climate. In recent
years the Democrat administration has increased business taxes and
fees, hiked the income tax for high income-earners, and imposed
costly new regulations.
"These are the types of decisions that probably are making a
company like Verizon think twice about locating in New Jersey,"
Thompson said. "Maybe a more business friendly climate in New Jersey
might make it easier – and cheaper – to convince businesses that
this is where they should locate."
Thompson said he hopes the state’s efforts to attract Verizon are
successful.
#####
February 8, 2005
DeCROCE
TO DEMOCRATS: STOP ATTACKING THE PRESIDENT AND START FIXING YOUR
BUDGET MESS
Assembly Republican Leader Alex DeCroce issued
the following statement regarding Acting Governor Richard Codey's
reaction to President Bush's Fiscal Year 2006 budget proposal.
"As Senate President, Richard Codey
shepherded through three horrendous state budgets. During the
Democrats' tenure in power there have been 62 fee and tax hikes,
property taxes have risen by 23%, and state spending has increased
by nearly $6 billion. The fiscal irresponsibility witnessed under
present legislative leadership is shocking and offensive."
"Unlike New Jersey Democrats, President Bush
is making an effort to rein-in spending to balance the federal
budget. I applaud the President's effort to eliminate
government redundancy and inefficiency. I suggest that my colleagues
from across the aisle concentrate on fixing the financial crisis
they created, rather than taking political potshots at President
Bush."
"Perhaps New Jersey Democrats should focus
their attention on ways to cut spending, instead of looking to a
never-ending list of new tax hike proposals. President Bush’s
decision to attack government spending rather than increase taxes is
a model we should try to emulate here in New Jersey."
####
February 8, 2005
McHOSE SAYS DEMOCRATS HAVE PLENTY OF NEW TAX IDEAS, BUT APPEAR
RELUCTANT TO EXPLORE SPENDING CUTS
Assemblywoman Alison Littell McHose, a member of the Assembly
Budget Committee, today said she is concerned about the growing
number of tax hike proposals being floated in the media in recent
days without much discussion of adopting fiscal restraint.
"We are hearing plenty of ideas for balancing the budget, but
unfortunately all of them seem to involve tax increases," said
McHose, R-Sussex, Morris and Hunterdon. "I’m concerned that every
time I pick up the newspaper I’m reading about the possibility of a
new tax hike, but I’m hearing very little about spending cuts."
Just in the past week several newspaper stories have appeared
indicating that the Codey administration is considering an income
tax hike, a new online sales tax, taxing 401K retirement accounts,
deep cuts to the Homestead Rebate program and freezing aid to
municipalities and school districts.
McHose said that she understands the administration is facing a
difficult budget, but that before turning to tax increases, spending
restraint must be the top priority. The non-partisan Office of
Legislative Services (OLS) has already warned of a budget deficit
that could be as high as $4 billion.
"We’ve heard the talk about making tough choices and the need to
cut spending, but the only ideas we hear floated seem to involve tax
hikes," McHose said. "It should not be a surprise that one year
after a record $4 billion spending increase that we are now faced
with a battery of new tax proposals to balance the budget."
#####
February 8, 2005
GREGG
SAYS NUMEROUS DEMOCRAT TAX PROPOSALS ARE NOT THE ANSWER TO NEW
JERSEY’S BUDGET WOES
Assembly Republican Conference Leader Guy Gregg today said he is
outraged that New Jersey Democrats are proposing a variety of tax
increases that will discourage savings, harm middle income
homeowners, and drive up the cost of living and doing business in
New Jersey.
Gregg said that one idea being floated – a new tax on 401K
retirement accounts – is particularly short-sighted while at the
same time Democrats in Washington are resisting efforts to save the
Social Security system.
"The Democrats in this state appear to be out of touch with the
rest of the world on this issue," said Gregg, R-Sussex, Morris and
Hunterdon. "At the same time they resist efforts in Washington to
save the troubled Social Security system, they want to tax
individuals who are privately saving for their retirement."
Gregg said that if the Democrats have their way Social Security
will run out of money and people won’t even be able to turn to their
own 401K accounts because the state will have been looting those
private accounts to fund their runaway spending habits.
He also expressed concern over new proposals to hike the gas tax
in order to support the Transportation Trust Fund.
"The TTF needs many structural reforms before we should even talk
about a gas tax hike," Gregg said. "If we increase the gas tax now
without reforming the TTF, much of the money will be wasted – and
judging by recent budgets the Democrats do enough of that already."
Gregg said that other Democrat tax hike proposals including
income tax hikes, internet sales taxes and reductions in the
Homestead Rebate program shouldn’t even be on the table until the
Democrats can justify their $4 billion spending increase in the
current year budget.
#####
February 8, 2005
PENNACCHIO
SAYS PROSECUTOR BILL LOOKS LIKE PARTISAN
COUNTY BAILOUT
Assemblyman Joe Pennacchio said that he is
outraged by a plan that would shift the cost to run Camden, Essex,
Hudson, and Mercer County Prosecutor's Offices from the respective
counties to the State.
"With a $4 billion budget deficit lurking on
the horizon, the Democrat-controlled Legislature is not in the
financial position to support new program spending," said
Pennacchio, R-Morris and Passaic. "It is not an appropriate
time to go forward with this type of taxpayer funded bailout."
The bill, A-2806, shifts the responsibility for
payment of the Camden, Essex, Hudson and Mercer County Prosecutor’s
Office from the respective counties to the State of New Jersey over
a ten year period. If the legislation becomes law all employees of
the County Prosecutor’s Offices in Camden, Essex, Hudson and
Mercer counties will become employees of the State.
"This bill is simply not fair," added
Pennacchio. "Presumably the goal of this bill is to provide
property tax relief, however, only residents in the four designated
counties will receive any type of benefit."
Pennacchio noted that this bill once again
highlights the Democrat-majority's failure to significantly address
soaring property taxes.
"Taxpayer dollars should not be used as a
slush fund to reward counties that provide votes for the Democrat
party," concluded Pennacchio. "At this time the
Legislature needs to explore real ways to provide property tax
relief, rather than passing a bill that only provides relief to
favored counties."
#####
February 7, 2005
BLEE-CONOVER
MEASURE CREATING INCOME TAX CHECK-OFF FOR THE LEUKEMIA AND LYMPHOMA
SOCIETY ADVANCES
Legislation sponsored by Assemblymen Frank Blee
and Kirk Conover permitting taxpayers to make voluntary
contributions on gross income tax returns to the Leukemia and
Lymphoma Society was released from the Assembly Health and Human
Services Committee.
"This measure is designed to establish a
constant funding source for this very important organization,"
said Blee, R-Atlantic. "Each year 3,600 New Jersey citizens are
diagnosed with leukemia or other blood cancers and the contributions
made to this fund will help us find a cure for those
individuals."
The bill, A-3099, provides for a designation on
state gross income tax returns that will permit taxpayers to make
voluntary contributions to the "Leukemia and Lymphoma Society-
New Jersey Fund". The measure also states that any cost
incurred by the Division of Taxation will be deducted from collected
contributions.
"Contributions made to this fund will go
directly towards our research and education programs,"said
Cathy Trzaskawka, Executive Director Southern New Jersey/Shore
Region Chapter of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. "The
public's generous contributions will also help us to provide
essential services to those families suffering with leukemia,
lymphoma, and myeloma."
"Every year 1,740 New Jerseyans die from
these diseases,"said Conover, R-Atlantic. "Cancer touches
everyone. Voluntary contributions providing additional resources for
research will help accelerate the process of finding a cure."
The Blee-Conover measure now heads to the full
General Assembly for consideration.
#####
February 7, 2005
PENNACCHIO
BLASTS CAMDEN SCHOOL DISTRICT FOR WASTING MONEY ON SPLASHY PARTY
Assemblyman Joe Pennacchio today blasted officials with the
Camden City School District for hosting a $15,000 invitation-only
party Thursday night at the South Jersey Performing Arts Center to
celebrate their accomplishments.
"This is the perfect example of why New Jersey taxpayers are
frustrated with the enormous amount of money being spent in Abbott
Districts," said Pennacchio, R-Morris and Passaic. "Too often these
taxpayer dollars intended to help the students are being wasted on
events and projects that in no way promote academic achievement."
Pennacchio called on the administration to review how Abbott
Districts are spending the state funds they receive.
The Camden Courier-Post and The Philadelphia Inquirer both reported on Friday that the Camden schools "saluted their
accomplishments" Thursday night with a $15,000 gala featuring fine
food, musical entertainment, and poetry.
In addition to that money the district spent another $5,200 on a
color two-page newspaper advertisement touting the district’s
accomplishment’s during Superintendent Annette Knox’s four-year
tenure. Knox is slated to earn a salary of $185,483 next year
according to The Philadelphia Inquirer.
Pennacchio said that these expenditures are particularly
troubling given the recent statewide school report card showing that
more than half of the district’s elementary schools failed to meet
proficiency standards in reading and math, and none of the
district’s eight middle schools achieved proficiency in both
subjects.
"At a time when students are struggling to achieve proficiency in
reading and math, I can see no justification for wasting $20,000,"
Pennacchio said.
#####
February 04,2005
GIBSON
SAYS ADMINISTRATION SHOULD LOOK TO CUT SPENDING BEFORE PROPOSING NEW
TAX INCREASES
OCEAN CITY -
Assemblyman Jack Gibson today urged the Codey administration to
reconsider a proposed income tax hike and said that after a year in
which the Democrats went on a record-setting spending spree he will
oppose any such proposed tax hike in this year’s budget.
“For the past three years Trenton has been unable to control
spending and it is time to address that problem,” said Gibson,
R-Cape May, Cumberland and Atlantic. “The Democrat leadership should
not be looking to increase taxes when they have yet to rein-in their
spending habits.”
Gibson was responding to a report in today’s edition of The Press
of Atlantic City in which it was reported that the
administration of Acting-Governor Richard Codey is considering an
income tax hike on middle income families and the removal of
protections for 401(k) retirement accounts.
The current year budget approved by the Democrats last June included
a $4 billion in additional spending (a full 17 percent over the
previous year), making it the largest one-year spending increase in
state history. The increase was in part funded by $2 billion in
borrowing that the Supreme Court has ruled unconstitutional.
“We
are entering what will be a difficult budget cycle, but our first
priority must be to get control of state spending,” Gibson said.
“Increasing taxes will not solve the root cause of this budget
crisis, and may only drive more residents and businesses from this
state.”
Gibson, who voted for the tax cuts Codey is planning to repeal, said
that he hopes Codey and the Democrats will not follow through on
this proposal.
“New Jersey residents pay enough in taxes already,” Gibson said.
“The Democrats who have been unable to control their own spending
should not burden our families with even more of these taxes.”
Gibson is the sponsor of ACR-223, which would create an elected
State Auditor, who would insure that the taxpayers’ money was being
spent prudently.
“Enough is enough,”
said Gibson. “Out of control spending, unconstitutional borrowing,
and unending tax increases have put this state in the worse
financial crisis in our history.”
###
February 03, 2005
GREGG:
TAXPAYER MONEY WAS SUPPOSED TO HELP CAMDEN RESIDENTS – NOT POLITICAL
CRONIES
Assembly Republican Conference Leader Guy Gregg today said that
he is very concerned about news reports that money earmarked for
affordable housing as part of Camden’s Cramer Hill redevelopment
project was funneled to businesses with close ties to Camden
political officials.
"Many of us in the Legislature were skeptical about providing
taxpayer funded redevelopment dollars to Camden and this was exactly
the reason for that skepticism," said Gregg, R-Sussex, Morris and
Hunterdon. "A city like Camden that is struggling to get back on its
feet cannot afford to use its limited financial resources as rewards
for the politically connected."
Today’s edition of The Philadelphia Inquirer reports that
Camden’s chief operating officer Melvin "Randy" Primas guided
millions of dollars to Michaels Development Inc. – a firm run by
Primas’ former business partner.
This follows news reports that the redevelopment project will
retain the law firm of Zeller & Bryant on a legal contract worth as
much as $200,000. Democrat State Senator Wayne Bryant, a leading
advocate of the state’s $175 million investment in Camden
redevelopment, is the partner in that law firm.
The Camden City Council will also be considering a second,
$70,000 legal contract, for Bryant’s firm in connection with a
separate redevelopment project.
"These types of contracts should be going to the best qualified
firms, not the firms with the best political connections to Democrat
politicians," Gregg said. "Acting Governor Codey should demand
answers as to how state money is being spent in Camden, and why
these contracts seem to be ending up only in the hands of the
politically connected."
#####
February 3, 2005
PENNACCHIO QUESTIONS PRIORITIES IN
NEWARK: ARENA VERSUS EDUCATION
Assemblyman Joe Pennacchio
today called on Democrats in Newark to justify the recently approved
$310 million dollar arena in Newark. On the same day of the arena
announcement the Department of Education released its annual public
school report card – and Newark did not make the honor roll.
“The numbers that Newark
schools produced were abysmal,” stated Pennacchio (R-
Passaic/Morris). “In eighteen elementary schools and eight high
schools less than half of the students passed their reading and math
proficiency tests. Where I come from 50% does not make the grade.”
“Newark plans on investing $210
million dollars of public money in an arena while their children
cannot read nor do basic mathematic equations,” Pennacchio
explained. “Where are their priorities?”
The Assemblyman went on to
explain that, due to the Supreme Court decision in Abbott vs. Burke,
between 1991 and 2004 New Jersey gave over $5.5 billion to school
districts in Newark. They received over $459 million last year
alone.
The funds were meant help
improve the quality of education in Newark schools and level the
playing field with other schools across the state. After nearly
fifteen years of state aid Newark schools are still failing - the
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