October 31, 2006

THAT WAS THEN...THIS IS NOW

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October 31, 2006

CORODEMUS: WITH PROPERTY TAX REFORM PLANS IMITATION IS THE SINCEREST FORM OF FLATTERY

DEMOCRATS LOOKING AT PLAN STRIKINGLY SIMILAR TO ASSEMBLY REPUBLICAN BLUEPRINT FOR PROPERTY TAX REFORM

Assemblyman Steve Corodemus today said he was surprised, but pleasantly so, that at least one member of the Assembly Democrat caucus appears to be proposing a property tax reform plan that is very similar to what Assembly Republicans proposed last year, constitutionally mandating that the state pay a portion of residential property tax bills.

The focus of the Democrat proposal seems to be on a direct, phased-in 30 percent reduction in property tax bills on primary residences.

“I am happy that the Democrats are at least looking at a substantive property tax relief proposal, particularly since it appears similar to what Republicans proposed last year,” said Corodemus, R-Monmouth. “Of course, I was a little surprised because prior to last year’s election, Democrats, including Assemblyman Burzichelli, dismissed our plan as unworkable. I guess in a non-election year they are more willing to embrace Republican ideas.”

Corodemus is the chairman of the Assembly Republican Policy Committee, a panel that held a series of meetings over the past two years studying the property tax reform issue. As a result of the policy committee’s work, Republicans unveiled a 30-plus bill package last year that was designed to provide immediate property tax relief for New Jersey homeowners.

The proposal was called the “Assembly Republican Blueprint for Property Tax Reform” and it called for a 30 percent reduction in property tax bills in three years, with the state assuming the burden for those payments. The relief, which would have applied to primary residences, would have taken the form of a direct reduction on property tax bills and been constitutionally mandated.

In today’s newspapers, Democrat Assemblyman John Burzichelli announced that Democrats are looking at a property tax relief plan that would have the state assume somewhere between 20-50 percent (30 percent being the target most often mentioned) of primary residential property tax bills, replacing the current rebate program with a direct reduction on tax bills, and constitutionally mandating that relief. Sound familiar?

“I would like to know if Governor Corzine is on-board with this proposal because during the gubernatorial election last year he derided an almost identical plan as being unrealistic,” Corodemus said. “If he is not on-board, the next question would be: what is the likelihood this will get done?”

Corodemus pointed out that the Assembly Republican plan would have phased-in the 30 percent reduction over three years and that it would have been backed by spending cuts – not tax hikes. According to the articles in today’s newspapers, Burzichelli did not appear to rule out tax hikes as a possible source of revenue to support the plan.

“If the idea is to hike taxes to provide property tax relief, then this proposal is nothing more than a tax shift, and it will not work,” Corodemus said. “Democrats have increased spending by nearly $10 billion in five years and if they can control these wasteful spending habits, they will be able to save the money necessary to provide real tax relief.”

He noted that the Democrats increased taxes by just under $2 billion this year alone, and by $6 billion in the last five years, to provide just $500 million for property tax relief.

“At that rate nobody will be able to afford to live here,” he said.

Corodemus said that if Burzichelli is committed to achieving his goal through spending reductions, he will be more than happy to work with him, noting that New Jersey taxpayers don’t care who gets the credit for such proposals, as long as they result in real relief.

“After five years of skyrocketing property tax bills, the people of New Jersey will accept nothing less than immediate relief as a result of this process,” Corodemus said. “That relief must be substantial in terms of dollars saved, and it must be permanent relief backed by systematic reforms.”

“It’s a shame Democrats allowed election-year politics to stand in the way of a solid plan to cut property taxes,” Corodemus concluded. “We lost a year. Let’s not waste another one.”

The Assembly Republican Blueprint for Property Tax Reform can be viewed at njassemblyrepublicans.com on the following link:

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October 30, 2006

BIONDI AND CORODEMUS TO ASK JOINT ETHICS COMMITTEE TO PURSUE WAYNE BRYANT MATTER

U.S. ATTORNEY RAISES NO OBJECTION TO PANEL LOOKING INTO POSSIBLE ETHICS VIOLATIONS AGAINST BRYANT

 Assembly Republican Conference Leader Peter Biondi and Assemblyman Steve Corodemus today said that in the wake of a report that U.S. Attorney Christopher Christie has no objection to the Legislative Joint Committee on Ethical Standards looking into possible ethics violations by State Senator Wayne Bryant, they will ask the committee to do so at its next meeting.

“It is long overdue for this committee get to work and now that it is clear we can do our job without jeopardizing any investigation the U.S. Attorney may be conducting, we must begin this investigatory process,” said Biondi, R-Somerset and Morris, a member of the committee. “Serious ethical charges have been leveled against Senator Bryant and our committee has a responsibility to look into this matter and determine whether there has been a violation of the ethics code.”

At the last meeting of the panel, committee vice chairman Judge Herbert Friend had asked for an investigation of Senator Bryant, but the committee agreed to first check with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to determine if exploring these ethical violations might compromise its investigation.

The committee subsequently sent a letter asking Christie if its investigation of Bryant might interfere with any investigations being carried out by Christie’s office. In a two-sentence letter issued Friday, Christie said he had no objection.

A federal monitor has issued a report alleging that Bryant pressured UMDNJ officials to create a no-show job allowing him to “lobby himself” for taxpayer funds while showing up for work at the $38,220 job about three hours a week during which he primarily read the newspaper.

“Our committee is charged with monitoring compliance with the ethics code and therefore we have an obligation to pursue this matter in an expeditious manner,” said Corodemus, R-Monmouth. “Our committee should be meeting to get to the bottom of this issue and to either clear Senator Bryant’s name, or hold him accountable for any violations he may have committed.”

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October 27, 2006

DeCROCE STATEMENT ON DECISION BY THE U.S. ATTORNEY REGARDING BRYANT INVESTIGATION

Assembly Republican Leader Alex DeCroce release the following statement in response to a letter issued by the U.S. Attorney’s Office saying it had not objection to an investigation into the conduct of state Sen. Wayne Bryant, D-Camden, by the Joint Legislative Committee on Ethical Standards:

“The ethics committee has a lot of work to do. Let’s get to it. The committee should reconvene as soon as possible and begin an immediate inquiry into the Bryant matter.”

The Legislative Committee on Ethical Standards on Monday asked U.S. Attorney Christopher J. Christie if the panel's investigation of Bryant might interfere with any investigations being carried out by Christie's office.

According to the Associated Press, in a two-sentence letter issued Friday, Christie said he had no objection. The letter did not confirm that federal investigators are looking into Bryant.

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October 27, 2006

GREGG ASKS CORZINE TO RE-CONSIDER DECISION NOT TO ALLOW BEAR HUNT

CITES PUBLIC SAFETY AS THE PRIMARY CONCERN

In response to a report that Governor Jon Corzine will seek to block this year’s black bear hunt, Assemblyman Guy Gregg said today he would like to know why the governor isn’t concerned with the protection and safety of residents living in the northwestern part of the state.

“Clearly this is a  public safety issue,” said Gregg, R-Sussex, Morris and Hunterdon, who noted that this past summer state wildlife authorities reported an increase in the number of black bears that act aggressively, destroy property and kill domestic animals. Advocates of the hunt, say it is necessary to curb the black bear population.

“As public servants, it is our responsibility to ensure the safety of every one of our residents,” he continued. “How are we supposed to do that if Governor Corzine arbitrarily goes against the advice of the experts who say a hunt is necessary for public safety reasons? Are we supposed to wait until one of these aggressive animals kills someone? I’m not willing to do that. The Governor shouldn’t be risking our residents’ lives.”

The Star Ledger reported today that Corzine, a long-time opponent of the state’s black bear hunt, will not sign off on the state’s annual game code in time for the start of this year’s hunt.

The state’s controversial on again, off again, bear hunting season begins December 4 and runs through December 9. New Jersey authorized its first hunt in 35 years in 2003 when 328 bears were taken.

A hunt was authorized again in 2004, but the New Jersey Supreme Court ordered that a black bear hunt could not be held until a comprehensive management policy was formulated by the Fish and Game Council and approved by the DEP Commissioner. Bear hunting season resumed last year when 298 bears were taken. The hunt is conducted in a 1,558-square-mile area north of Route 78 and west of Route 287, the state’s prime black bear habitat.

Gregg pointed out that hunting is not a free-for-all sport, but a strictly-regulated method for controlling the bear population. All bear hunters are required to hold a valid hunting license and complete a mandatory bear hunting seminar provided by the DEP’s Division of Fish and Wildlife.

“I hope the Governor understands that you can’t just pick up a gun and go out and hunt bear wherever and whenever you want,” explained Gregg. “It’s a very regulated sport and our most efficient method for curbing the bear population. In New Jersey, this isn’t about killing bear for the sake of sport. It’s a necessity to protect life and property. Therefore, I am asking Governor Corzine to re-consider his decision.”

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October 26, 2006

HANDLIN TO HACKETT: MOVE LEGISLATION THAT WILL CREATE COMMISSION TO OVERSEE INDPEPENDENT AUTHORITIES

In response to a report released Monday by the state Attorney General which found spending abuses and outrageous benefit practices at the state’s 45 independent authorities, Assemblywoman Amy Handlin today called for the chairman of the Assembly State Government Committee to take action on legislation she sponsored earlier this year that would create a commission to periodically review the operations of the authorities.

“The Inspector General’s report confirms what we have suspected for years – that because these agencies operate in the shadows with little government oversight, they have been abusing taxpayer money and lavishing employees with outlandish benefits,” said Handlin, R-Middlesex and Monmouth. “It is time to end these spending abuses and bring these authorities in line with state employee benefit practices – as a start.

“This bill will bring desperately needed accountability to these agencies,” she continued. “Therefore, I am calling on Chairman Hackett to move this legislation for committee action as soon as procedurally possible.”

The Bill, A-3031, would establish a permanent “State Authorities Review Commission” to review, on a periodic basis, the operation of State authorities and to report on December 1 of each year its findings and recommendations, including abolishing, merging or consolidating them, if necessary, to the Governor and the Legislature. The Commission would consist of seven members for a five-year term, who would be prohibited from holding an elective public office or serving as a member of an authority while serving as a member of the Commission.

An Asbury Park Press editorial today called for the committee chair, Assemblyman Mims Hackett, D-Essex, to take action on Handlin’s legislation. It reported that according to Inspector General Mary Jane Cooper’s report, disparities exist among the independent authorities in regards to meal, gasoline and travel reimbursements, the number of sick, vacation and holidays allowed, and “cash ins” of unused sick or vacation days at year’s end for the authorities’ 47,000 employees.

The report noted that although the state reimbursement rate for employees who use their own cars is 31 cents per mile, 14 authorities reimburse at the federal allowance of 44.5 cents per mile. It also revealed that some agencies give employees more than the 13 holidays observed by the state such as the New Jersey Transportation Planning Authority which closes shop for a full week between Christmas and New Year’s Day at taxpayer expense.

Handlin introduced her legislation in May along with Assembly Republican Leader Alex DeCroce, R-Morris and Passaic, and Assemblywoman Charlotte Vandervalk, R-Bergen. Co-sponsors are Assemblywoman Alison Littell McHose, R-Sussex, Morris and Hunterdon, and Assemblywoman Marcia Karrow, R-Warren and Hunterdon.

“It’s time to end the gravy train,” said Handlin. “It is never acceptable for these authorities to run their own show and do whatever they please with hard-earned taxpayer money and especially so when our state is awash in runaway government spending, debt and taxes. In fact, these abuses are a significant part of the problem.

“We have four legislative committees grappling with ways to reform property taxes. If  our legislative leaders would step to the plate and put an end to the state’s culture of corruption, and reign in government spending, fraud and abuses, we could give our citizens the tax relief they so desperately want and need. Let’s start by providing much-needed and long overdue oversight of these authorities and holding them accountable for their actions.”

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October 26, 2006

GREGG ASKS CORZINE, JACKSON TO EXPEDITE STATE’S BEAR HUNTING PROCESS

SAYS GOVERNOR NEEDS TO DECIDE IF HUNTING SEASON IS ON OR OFF SO HUNTERS CAN SECURE LICENSES

In the interest of public safety and  in an effort to give bear hunters ample time to prepare for a possible black bear hunt in December, Assemblyman Guy Gregg today called on Governor Jon Corzine and DEP Commissioner Lisa Jackson to resolve and expedite the matter as quickly as possible.

“With the potential start of the 2006 black bear hunting season just about six weeks away, and because the rules must be re-adopted before a hunt can be planned, I have asked Governor Corzine  to render a decision as to whether or not the hunt will proceed this year,” said Gregg. “There’s also the issue of public safety. Advocates of a hunt say it’s necessary to protect our citizens by controlling the bear population. Therefore, if the governor gives the okay, then we need to move this process along in the interest of public safety.”

The Assemblyman who represents Sussex, Morris, and Hunterdon counties added that because all bear hunters are required to hold a valid hunting license and complete a mandatory bear hunting seminar provided by the DEP’s Division of Fish and Wildlife, he also requested in a letter to Corzine and Jackson that the DEP Commissioner take the necessary steps now to expedite the process in as timely a fashion as possible.

“In the interest of fairness to bear hunters, it is only right that they have ample time to secure all necessary licenses and attend the mandated education course if the hunt is going to proceed,” he said. “Conversely, if the hunt is off, hunters should be made aware of that decision now so they can make alternate plans if they so choose.”

The state’s controversial on again, off again, bear hunting season begins December 4 and runs through December 9. New Jersey authorized its first hunt in 35 years in 2003 when 328 bears were taken.

A hunt was authorized again in 2004, but the New Jersey Supreme Court ordered that a black bear hunt could not be held until a comprehensive management policy was formulated by the Fish and Game Council and approved by the DEP Commissioner. Bear hunting season resumed last year when 298 bears were taken. Advocates say the hunt is necessary to control the state’s black bear population.

Corzine is on record as saying he opposes a bear hunt, but has yet to make a decision on this year’s hunt. Jackson has stated she favors a hunt.

“It isn’t fair to leave hunters in a state of limbo,” said Gregg. “Let’s have a decision now and proceed accordingly so everyone affected has opportunity to make the necessary preparations.”

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October 25, 2006

DOHERTY SAYS SUPREME COURT ONCE AGAIN STEPS OVER THE LINE IN LEGISLATING FROM THE BENCH

Assemblyman Mike Doherty, R-Warren and Hunterdon, issued the following statement today in response to the New Jersey Supreme Court’s ruling regarding gay marriage in New Jersey:

“Today’s ruling is just the latest in a long line of decisions from the New Jersey Supreme Court where the justices are doing nothing less than legislating from the bench. On issue after issue our state’s Supreme Court has taken out of the hands of the public and their elected representatives in the Legislature the power to set policy.

“In this case the Court has decided everything about the gay marriage issue except what to call this new ‘institution.’ For that, the court has mandated a 180-day deadline to the Legislature to do nothing more than come up with a name for its new creation.

“I believe in the sanctity of the institution of marriage and I believe today’s ruling undermines that institution. What the court did today was to overstep its authority and impose a new public policy on the people of New Jersey against the public’s wishes. I will look at whatever legislative or constitutional avenues are available to overturn this decision.”

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October 25, 2006

DeCROCE STATEMENT ON TODAY’S NEW JERSEY SUPREME COURT GAY MARRIAGE RULING

Assembly Republican Leader Alex DeCroce, R-Morris and Passaic, today issued the following statement on the New Jersey Supreme Court’s holding that same-sex couples must be afforded the same rights as married heterosexual couples under the state constitution:

“It is my belief that the lower courts in this case had ruled correctly on the issue and that once again the Supreme Court has gone beyond the letter of the law and our state Constitution to legislate from the bench. I support the idea that marriage between a man and a woman is a sacred institution that should be preserved.

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October 25, 2006

GREGG: CALLS FOR IMMEDIATE VOTE OF LEGISLATURE ON CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT TO BAN GAY MARRIAGE

Assemblyman Guy Gregg, who is the sponsor of a constitutional amendment that would define marriage as being only between a man and a woman, issued the following statement today in response to the New Jersey Supreme Court’s ruling regarding gay marriage in New Jersey:

 “I am urging the Legislature to convene as soon as possible, to consider the constitutional amendment I have sponsored that would define marriage in New Jersey as being only between a man and a woman. Not only does this reflect the intent of the current law, but it also would give New Jersey voters a chance to have a voice in this matter when the issue comes to the ballot for a vote.

“In addition to this amendment we will also look into whether in light of today’s ruling any additional constitutional actions may be necessary to preserve the integrity and sanctity of marriage.

“This issue is not about how we may feel personally about individuals of any sexual orientation. It is about a sacred institution which we as a government have an obligation to protect. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this amendment."

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October 25, 2006

McHOSE TO PURSUE LEGISLATION THAT PROTECTS THE SANCTITY OF MARRIAGE

Assemblywoman Alison Littell McHose, R-Sussex, Morris, Hunterdon, who is a co-prime sponsor of ACR-134, a constitutional amendment which defines marriage as being solely between a man and a woman unless the Legislature provides otherwise, today issued the following statement on the ruling by the New Jersey Supreme Court that same-sex couples must be afforded the same rights as married heterosexual couples under New Jersey’s Constitution:

“Today’s court ruling not only weakens a sacred institution that has been recognized throughout history, it also usurps the power of the Legislature to make policy decisions that are properly within the scope of the legislative branch.

“The idea that marriage is between a man and a woman is firmly rooted not just in custom and history, but also in the policies of our institutions of government. The lower courts were correct in this case when they held that same-sex marriage has no such fundamental and protected status under state law or our Constitution.

“The problem with the court’s repeated forays into the area of legislating is that it leaves the people of New Jersey with no voice on these important issues.

“However, if as a result of the court’s decision my legislative measure defining marriage is no longer applicable, I am willing to consider whatever legislation is necessary to protect this sacred institution.”

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October 25, 2006

GORMLEY AND O'TOOLE: STOP STONEWALLING ON BENEFITS REVIEW TASK FORCE REPORT

CALL ON SCUTARI AND POU TO ALLOW VOTE ON INDIVIDUAL REFORMS

Senator William Gormley and Assemblyman Kevin O’Toole today said the Legislature should immediately act to implement the reforms suggested by the Benefits Review Task Force.

Specifically, in line with the Murphy Report’s suggestions, Gormley proposes raising the standard retirement age from 55 to 60, one job for one pension, and requiring employees to contribute to their health care costs.

“Mr. Murphy’s appearance today is three months late.  We should have started the process by hearing from Mr. Murphy,” said Gormley, R-Atlantic.  “New Jersey’s benefits system is on the verge of bankruptcy, which demands urgent action.  I recommend that the committee vote on the Murphy Report recommendations next week.”

“In my opinion, the report compiled by Mr. Murphy is the single most important document I have seen in all my years of service in the Legislature,” said O’Toole, R-Bergen, Essex, and Passaic.  “If given adequate consideration, the report promises to have a tremendous impact on New Jersey’s longstanding financial issues.” 

In today’s meeting of the Joint Committee on Public Employee Benefits Reform, Philip Murphy, chairman of the Benefits Review Task Force, testified on the reforms outlined in the task force’s report to the public.  The recommendations in the report include:

• Ensure government meets it obligation to its workers;
• Put a stop to the abuses and “gaming” of the system;
• Implement structural reforms of pension benefits;
• Enact structural reforms of health care benefits; and
• Strengthen process for review of benefit enhancements.

“The testimony presented to the committee by the task force was very disheartening,” added O’Toole.  “It confirmed that our worst fears have actually come to fruition.  Government inaction has in fact made New Jersey’s broken public employee benefits system even worse.”

Mr. Murphy estimated that in the one year since the report was issued the combined unfunded liability in pension and health care benefits has grown from $40 billion to $50 billion.

Gormley and O’Toole said they reject Senator Nicholas Scutari’s suggestion to have the committee vote on its set of reforms as one large measure.

“Voting on the reforms as one large measure is a tactic designed to provide legislators with an excuse to outright reject some of the more politically sensitive proposals.” Gormley stated. 

“We should have an opportunity to vote on every reform individually to ensure every idea is properly scrutinized,” said O’Toole.  “The only way to guarantee transparency is to discuss the individual proposals.”

http://www.state.nj.us/benefitsreview/final_report.pdf

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October 25, 2006

BIONDI-CORODEMUS: MONDAY’S MEETING A GOOD ARGUMENT FOR ALL-PUBLIC MEMBER ETHICS PANEL

BIONDI AND CORODEMUS SAY JOINT COMMITTEE ON ETHICAL STANDARDS MIGHT BE BETTER OFF WITHOUT LEGISLATORS

After the Legislative Joint Committee on Ethical Standards bickered through a four-hour deadlock over a appointing a new chairman, and after failing to meet for more than a year, Assembly Republican Conference Leader Peter Biondi and Assemblyman Steve Corodemus today said it is time to move forward with legislation being drafted by Republican Leader Alex DeCroce that would make the committee an all-public member panel.

“The manner in which Monday’s meeting was conducted was disorganized, partisan and a clear attempt by certain individuals to ram through their decisions without bipartisan compromise,” said Biondi, R-Somerset and Morris, the outgoing vice-chair of the committee. “The intransigent unwillingness of our Democrat colleagues to put a fully independent former judge in charge of the committee, nor to commit to a schedule of meetings, was also very troubling.”

Biondi and Corodemus are the Assembly Republican members of the Joint Committee on Ethical Standards and said they are ready and willing to meet at any time, on any day, including weekends and holidays. But they questioned whether the committee as currently constituted is the most effective way to review ethics complaints against legislators.

They pointed to the rancorous meeting Monday where outgoing committee chairman Senator Bernard Kenny ran the meeting in a manner akin to a third-world dictatorship and legislators could not agree on a course of action on the simple matter of reorganization for nearly four hours.

“The unfortunate tenor of yesterday’s meeting aside, in the coming the weeks we will be considering dozens of ethics complaints, five of which are against sitting members of this committee,” said Corodemus, R-Monmouth. “This means that more than half of the legislators on this committee will have to recuse themselves anyway, which points out the inherent conflict in having legislators serve on a committee charged with reviewing the actions of legislators.”

Biondi and Corodemus said that while they are honored to serve on the committee, they can now see the wisdom of the legislation to be sponsored by DeCroce that would remove all legislators from the panel and instead have a committee with eight public members and bipartisan co-chairs.

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October 24, 2006

DeCROCE CHALLENGES DEM LEADERS TO END THE EQUIVOCATION ON BIPARTISAN PAY-TO-PLAY REFORM

SEEKS FIRM COMMITMENT TO END POLITICAL CONTRIBUTIONS BY REDEVELOPERS

Assembly Republican Leader Alex DeCroce said today he is disappointed with the lukewarm response of Assembly Speaker Joseph Roberts, D-Camden, and Senate President Richard Codey, D-Essex, to a bipartisan attempt to advance “pay-to-play” reform by ending political contributions by builders involved with redevelopment projects.

“We need a sweeping top-to-bottom ban on the insidious practice of pay-to-play,” asserted DeCroce, R-Morris and Passaic. “So far efforts to enact such a ban have hit a brick wall in the form of the Assembly Speaker and Senate President. The very least they can do is heed calls by their own members to consider incremental reform.”

Pending legislation would prohibit builders who receive redevelopment contracts, along with their attorneys, engineers, lobbyists and other consultants from making political donations to officials who award the contracts or those who appoint them, as well as political parties and fundraising committees that support them financially.

At a news conference yesterday, Democrat and Republican sponsors of the bill joined with representatives of The Citizens’ Campaign, a public interest group, in calling for legislative action. They said the measure is designed to end any influence campaign contributions may exert on decisions to proceed with massive redevelopment projects.

Afterwards, a spokesman for Roberts said it was “possible” some elements of the redevelopment legislation may be incorporated into a long-awaited and very overdue ethics reform and anti-corruption package Democrats are supposedly drafting behind the scenes. Codey hedged by saying pay-to-play reform had to be “fair” and “strike a balance.”

“The public is fed up with equivocation; they want action, and they want it now,” said DeCroce. “The Assembly Speaker and Senate President should stop their wavering and join the reform movement.”

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October 23, 2006

BECK: EFFORT TO REFORM BUDGET PROCESS GAINS BIPARTISAN SUPPORT

STATE GOVERNMENT COMMITTEE NOT SCHEDULED TO MEET MONDAY DESPITE DOZENS OF PENDING ETHICS REFORM BILLS

Assemblywoman Jennifer Beck said today that she is pleased that her proposed constitutional amendment that would decrease the likelihood of a government shutdown has gained bipartisan support.

“The citizens of New Jersey simply can’t endure another government shutdown,” said Beck, R-Monmouth and Mercer.  “The Legislature is responsible for crafting a budget and ensuring it is passed before the constitutional deadline.  There needs to be consequences in place if they are unable to fulfill this basic duty.”

The Beck budget reform measure, ACR-205, includes the following provisions:

• Provides for the replacement of the Speaker of the General Assembly and the Senate President should the Legislature fail to enact a budget by the constitutional deadline;
• Requires the Legislature, in the event of a government shutdown, remain in session until a general appropriations bill is approved by both houses; and
• Mandates that government operations that generate revenue for the State, including lottery sales, gambling within the city of Atlantic City, horse racing, and other means designated by the Legislature by law, would remain open should another shutdown occur.

Beck noted that Assemblywomen Oadline Truitt and Valerie Vainieri Huttle, as well as Assemblyman Louis Manzo, have recently agreed to co-sponsor this critical piece of legislation.  Beck also pointed out that Assemblyman Joseph Cryan signed on as a co-sponsor when the legislation was first introduced in July.

“I am encouraged by the fact that several of my colleagues from across the aisle have joined in supporting reforms that seek to prevent future government shutdowns,” Beck added.  “Now that several Democrat legislators have signed on as co-sponsors, I expect Democrat leadership to move this vital reform measure forward.”

Beck said the Legislature needs to act now to prevent another government shutdown.

“The public is demanding that we take immediate steps to repair New Jersey’s obviously flawed budget process,” commented Beck.  “We can’t afford to wait until next June to start considering proposals to make our budget process more orderly and responsible.  By then, the Legislature will already be in the midst of a heated budget battle and most likely headed towards another disaster.”

Below is the full list of legislators who have signed on as co-sponsors.

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October 20, 2006

KEAN AND HANDLIN CALL FOR AN ETHICS REFORM AGENDA FOR STATE GOVERNMENT COMMITTEE

STATE GOVERNMENT COMMITTEE NOT SCHEDULED TO MEET MONDAY DESPITE DOZENS OF PENDING ETHICS REFORM BILLS

Assemblyman Sean Kean and Assemblywoman Amy Handlin, members of the Assembly State Government Committee, today expressed disappointment that, with dozens of ethics reform bills awaiting action, the committee will not meet as scheduled this Monday.

“Our committee is charged with considering many of the ethics reform proposals that have been introduced by members of both parties,” said Kean, R-Monmouth. “If the Assembly Democrats believe there is no reason for the committee to meet during its scheduled rotation, they are very wrong. Monday would be an excellent opportunity to begin considering the many ethics reform proposals that are pending.”

The Assembly State Government Committee is part of the C and D group committees. All of those committees, except State Government, are scheduled to meet this Monday as part of a regular committee schedule.

“I can see no justification for not using this time to consider these ethics bills,” said Handlin, R-Monmouth and Middlesex. “The Speaker has said that ethics reform will be a top priority sometime this year. Let’s get the ball rolling by considering some of those reforms at a committee meeting now.”

As part of its Blueprint for a Corrupt-Free New Jersey, Assembly Republicans have introduced more than 50 ethics reform bills dealing with issues ranging from campaign finance reform, to pension reform, to a ban on dual office holding and reforms of the legislative ethics committee.

Kean and Handlin said that not only should those Republican bills be considered, but so to should any ethics reform proposals that have been introduced by their Democrat colleagues.

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October 20, 2006

MALONE BRINGING SHARED SERVICES COMMITTEE HEARING TO BORDENTOWN

Assemblyman Joseph Malone is bringing the Joint Legislative Committee on Government Consolidation and Shared Services to the people of his hometown.

The committee, of which Malone is a member, will hold its first public hearing since it began meeting in August, on Thursday, October 26, 2006, at 7 p.m. at the Bordentown Municipal Center.

Malone, R-Burlington, Ocean, Monmouth and Mercer, said today that he hopes residents from Bordentown and surrounding communities will take advantage of this opportunity and come out and let their voices be heard.

“I lobbied strongly to have the committee’s first public hearing held in our hometown and I would like to thank my colleagues for acquiescing to our request,” said Malone. “It’s important for the people of Bordentown and our neighboring communities to come out and share their views on government consolidation and shared services as it pertains to property tax reform. After all, that is why we serve. We are here representing them and it’s important that we, as committee members, listen to what they have to say.

“For the past two months we have heard testimony from various government and municipal officials who have debated the pros and cons of consolidating services,” he continued. “But that’s only part of the equation. We need to hear what the tax paying public has to say. Their input is just as vital.  I would strongly encourage residents to attend this hearing and let their voices be heard on this topic.”

The committee, which meets weekly at the statehouse in Trenton, is one of four committees established to study property tax reform.

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October 20, 2006

CORODEMUS AND BECK INTRODUCE LEGISLATION TO REPEAL SALES TAX EXPANSION

WOULD ELIMINATE EXPANSION OF SALES TAX TO GYM MEMBERSHIPS, PARKING, STORAGE, AND OTHER SERVICES

Saying that New Jersey residents are already overburdened by the state’s tax climate Assemblyman Steve Corodemus and Assemblywoman Jennifer Beck have introduced legislation to repeal the recently enacted expansion of the state sales tax.

“Three weeks ago New Jersey taxpayers were hit with the impact of a variety of new sales taxes imposed in this year’s budget,” said Corodemus, R-Monmouth. “This sales tax expansion will depress a state economy that is already lagging behind the national economy and will only add to the already hefty tax burden in New Jersey.”

On October 1 of this year the new sales tax approved as part of the FY2007 budget was formally expanded to include taxes on information services, parking, gym memberships, security services, storage facilities, laundry, dry cleaning, tattooing, tanning and a variety of other services.

The Corodemus-Beck bill would repeal the sales tax expansion on all of those items effective immediately.

“Recent economic reports show that New Jersey is not only becoming an unaffordable place to live, it is also becoming an unprofitable place to do business,” said Beck, R-Monmouth and Mercer. “We need to reverse this trend and make New Jersey affordable again for middle class families and financially attractive to job producing businesses.”

A recent report by Rutgers economists painted a dreary picture of the state’s economy and this sales tax hike will only make matters worse. The 20-page report states that New Jersey now faces its most uncertain economic future since the Great Depression, in part as a result of the state’s tax climate.

In 1990 New Jersey accounted for a 20 percent share of all pharmaceutical jobs in the nation and today that has dropped to a 13 percent share. The state’s share of telecommunications jobs dropped from 5.8 percent in 1990 to 3.9 percent in 2004, and its share of Internet service jobs declined from 6.1 percent to 3.6 percent. As these jobs have left so have the people who filled them.

The economists have said the loss of these jobs will have a harsh impact on the state’s economic health because New Jersey is an expensive place to live and work and requires high-paid workers to pay the taxes that finance its government spending.

Last week the Tax Foundation ranked New Jersey as the 48th best, or third worst, state in the nation in which to do business because of our tax structure.

Corodemus and Beck noted that the $1 billion increase in the sales tax from 6 to 7 percent enacted in July would not have been necessary if Democrats had been willing to control their spending habits.

Assembly Republicans proposed $2.2 billion in spending cuts, but instead Democrats increased spending by $2 billion including more than $400 million in pork projects. Had the Republican spending cuts been adopted the budget could have been balanced with no sales tax increase.

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October 20, 2006

MERKT QUESTIONS LACK OF RESPONSE ON REQUEST FOR JERSEY CITY MEDICAL CENTER AUDIT

Assemblyman Richard Merkt, who two weeks ago requested a copy of a recent audit of the financial activities at Jersey City Medical Center, today said he is tired of the stonewalling on the matter and that he fears the reluctance to release the audit may be a result of an effort to hide its findings from the taxpayers.

“I am tired of the cavalier attitude and stalling tactics by the Department of Health and Senior Services on this matter,” said Merkt, R-Morris. “In light of the millions of  taxpayer dollars that Jersey City Medical Center is receiving every week, they have an obligation to make this audit public so that we can find out how these dollars are being spent.”

Jersey City Medical Center (JCMC) received $52.2 million in charity care funding in each of the last two years, and also was given a last-minute $25.7 million supplemental appropriation in this year’s budget.

An audit of the medical center was requested when officials went to the state seeking additional dollars, and that audit was presented to LibertyHealth board members three weeks ago. It was not made public, but immediately after the meeting JCMC CEO Jonathan Metsch stepped down – a decision reportedly tied to the audit.

Merkt had requested that Health and Senior Services Commissioner Fred Jacobs make this audit public, but to date the department has declined to release the audit.

“Why is the department stalling on releasing this information?” Merkt asked. “With the pending elections, and the fact that this hospital is located in Hudson County, I am beginning to wonder whether there is a Bob Menendez factor here.”

Last week Merkt also sent a letter to officials with the Jersey City Medical Center requesting financial data with respect to all hospital expenditures on public and community relations, lobbying, and legal services provided by, or on behalf of, the hospital.

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October 20, 2006

DeCROCE ASKS ROBERTS FOR ACTION ON REPUBLICAN ETHICS REFORM PROPOSALS

REQUESTS THAT SPEAKER INCLUDE REPUBLICAN PROPOSALS WITH ANY DEMOCRAT INITIATIVES THAT WILL BE VOTED ON

Assembly Republican Leader Alex DeCroce today sent a letter to Assembly Speaker Joseph Roberts asking that the Speaker place Republican ethics reform bills, and any comparable Democrat ethics reform proposals on committee agendas to be considered at the soonest possible time.

“I  think it was a positive step for the Speaker to announce his commitment to passing a tough ethics reform package,” said DeCroce, R-Morris and Passaic. “But I also think we have no time to waste. Republicans have introduced more than 50 ethics reform bills, any and all of which could be considered right now.”

In the wake of numerous recent public corruption scandals and federal investigations into public officials Assembly Republicans unveiled an 11-point Blueprint for a Corrupt-Free New Jersey. This ethics reform package would address issues ranging from pay-to-play, to dual office holding, to pension abuses, while also reforming the legislative ethics review process.

While Democrats initially dismissed the Republican call to action on ethics reform, Assembly Speaker Roberts announced last week that he was prepared to consider a comprehensive ethics reform package sometime this year, and that such a package was “overdue.”

“I think it is important that we in state government take steps to reassure the public that we are determined to put an end to these scandals and to hold public officials accountable for their actions,” DeCroce says in his letter to Corzine. “I look forward to working with Speaker Roberts in a bipartisan manner on passing the toughest ethics reform laws in the nation.”

A copy of the letter to Roberts is below:

Dear Speaker Roberts:

I was encouraged to read press accounts that you are prepared to consider a tough anti-corruption and ethics reform package sometime this year. Political corruption is a bipartisan problem that requires bipartisan solutions. Republican members of the General Assembly believe action in this area is definitely “overdue” and are ready to work with Democrats on a serious effort to clean up the culture of corruption in New Jersey.

As you know, Assembly Republicans have offered for immediate consideration a Blueprint for a Corrupt-Free New Jersey that includes the best reform ideas proposed by Democrats and Republicans. It addresses ethics reform issues that concern the public the most: stronger penalties for corrupt officials, a tough code of ethics for members of the Legislature, citizen review of ethics complaints lodged against legislators, a top-to-bottom ban on pay-to-play and wheeling, stronger nepotism laws, a ban on dual office holding, and an end to pension boosting and tacking. Many of these reforms have been endorsed publicly by Governor Jon Corzine. We believe passage of these bills would have an immediate and lasting impact and help rebuild public trust in their elected officials.

Attached is a list of initiatives sponsored by Republican members of the General Assembly that would accomplish the goals outlined in the Blueprint for a Corrupt-Free New Jersey. Democrat members of the General Assembly have introduced many similar bills. Of course, this list does not include every item worthy of consideration, as many legislators of both parties have proposed additional reforms that deserve attention.

But we must settle on a starting point, and Assembly Republicans believe these items should be priorities. On behalf of the sponsors and the entire Assembly Republican caucus, I respectfully request that these initiatives – along with any comparable proposals by Assembly Democrats – be placed on agendas for legislative committee attention and action at the soonest possible time. Thank you for your kind attention to this matter.

Very truly yours,

Alex DeCroce
Republican Leader

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October 19, 2006

GREGG: STATE’S USE OF TAXPAYER MONEY TO DEFEND RIGHTS OF PEDOPHILES IS OUTRAGEOUS

Assemblywoman Jennifer Beck today said that Assemblyman Michael Panter and State Senator Ellen Karcher should put pressure on their own Democrat leadership to begin taking steps to remove State Senator Wayne Bryant from office.

Assemblyman Guy Gregg said today he is outraged at the state’s decision to file a lawsuit challenging the right of municipalities to establish “pedophile-free zones,” calling the lawsuit an abhorrent abuse of taxpayer money and a travesty of justice.

“Instead of doing something to help protect our children, our most vulnerable citizens, the state of New Jersey, in its infinite wisdom, is using hard-earned taxpayer money to aid and abet the rights of convicted pedophiles. What are these public officials thinking?” said an exasperated Gregg. “How low can this state go? I’ll tell you – we have pretty much hit rock bottom.”

Gregg, R-Sussex, Morris, and Hunterdon, was responding to an article in today’s Philadelphia Inquirer which reported that the state Office of the Public Defender filed a lawsuit Tuesday on behalf of a registered sex offender seeking to end local pedophile residence laws.

The 76-year-old convicted felon from Franklin Township pleaded guilty to molesting three young children, including two grandchildren, in his home in 2000. Although he is registered as a sex offender under Megan’s Law, Franklin Township passed an ordinance banning pedophiles from living within 2,500 feet of schools, libraries, day care centers, churches, convenience stores and recreational areas. Because the man, identified only as “A.B.” in the lawsuit, lives near a lake, which is considered a recreational facility, he is being forced to move.

According to the article, a spokesman for the public defender’s office said the ordinance “went beyond what Megan’s Law intended...Megan’s Law is supposed to be used to protect children, not be used as punishment.” But Franklin Township’s mayor defended the city law saying it is necessary due to “the high rate of recidivism by sex offenders.”

“Once again the perpetrator of a crime wants us to believe he’s the victim and our state’s public defender office is more than happy to accommodate him,” said Gregg. “Not only are they using taxpayer money to pit one level of government against another, but frankly, I am sick and tired of this ‘victim mentality’ that pervades this nation and now our state.”

He continued, “It’s a well known fact that a very high majority of sex offenders repeat their crimes after leaving prison. Our obligation isn’t to pander to the needs of pedophiles, but rather, it’s our responsibility to do any and everything necessary to protect our children and our communities from those who prey on the innocent.”

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October 19, 2006

MERKT WARNS AGAINST CONSTITUTIONAL CONVENTION PLAN THAT EXCLUDES SPENDING ISSUES

PROCESS WOULD BE VERY COSTLY AND LENGTHY

Assemblyman Richard Merkt today warned against any constitutional convention proposal that does not allow the delegates to consider government spending issues.

“Convening a constitutional convention is no guaranteed solution to New Jersey’s property tax crisis,” said Merkt, R-Morris.  “The root cause of high property taxes lies in fiscally irresponsible behavior.” 

Merkt noted that so far the only convention proposal considered by the Legislature was designed so that the delegates are only allowed to decide what other taxes to raise to pay for spending now funded by property taxes.

“The previous convention proposal voted on by the General Assembly did not permit the delegates to discuss critical issues like non-voter approved state borrowing, wasteful government spending, or school funding inequities,” commented Merkt, who added, “These are the self-destructive financial practices that drive property taxes ever higher.”

Merkt noted that Democrats are floating the tax convention idea only because they have repeatedly failed to devise an effective plan to address soaring property taxes.

“A constitutional convention is an expensive and risky experiment,” Merkt said.  “It is nothing more than a cop-out, a way for legislators to hand off the difficult issue of property tax reform to a body that is not accountable to the voters.  It is time for elected officials to accept responsibility and actually do something that will have a real impact on unbearable property taxes.”

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October 18, 2006

BECK AGAIN CALLS ON DEMOCRATS TO SPEAK OUT FOR BRYANT’S REMOVAL FROM THE SENATE

SUGGESTS THAT KARCHER AND PANTER URGE FELLOW DEMOCRATS TO HAVE BRYANT REMOVED

Assemblywoman Jennifer Beck today said that Assemblyman Michael Panter and State Senator Ellen Karcher should put pressure on their own Democrat leadership to begin taking steps to remove State Senator Wayne Bryant from office.

“Senator Bryant has already been removed from his position as head of the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee because of his involvement in various ethics scandals,” said Beck, R-Monmouth and Mercer.  “If Senator Bryant is no longer fit to serve as budget chairman, he should not be allowed to continue serving as a legislator either.”

According to numerous news accounts a federal monitor has found that Bryant pressured UMDNJ officials to create a no-show job allowing him to “lobby himself” for taxpayer funds. Bryant allegedly only showed up for work at the $38,220 job about three hours a week during which he primarily read the newspaper.

Beck said Senator Bryant’s continued presence only serves to soil the reputation of the entire Legislature.

“The accusations against Senator Bryant are very troubling and I am certain they are having a negative affect on his ability to properly carryout his duties as a legislator,” added Beck.  “The Legislature is gearing up to consider a number of very critical pieces of legislation, including several property tax reform proposals.  We can’t allow him to remain in office and  taint the legislative process.”

Beck said that if Karcher and Panter really want to move ethics reform forward they should join with Republicans in calling for Bryant to be removed from the Legislature.  Beck noted that this is the second time she has called on Karcher to use her influence to expel him from the Senate.

“While Republicans, who are in the minority, are limited in what actions we can take, my colleagues on the other side of the aisle are in a position to act,” Beck said.  “Assemblyman Panter and Senator Karcher should use whatever influence they have in the Democrat party to force Senator Bryant to step down.  It is time they replace ethics reform rhetoric with action."

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October 17, 2006

DeCROCE, BIONDI AND O’TOOLE SAY CORZINE PROPERTY TAX RELIEF GOAL FALLS SHORT FOR TAXPAYERS

AVERAGE TAXPAYER WOULD STILL BE FACING INCREASES EACH YEAR IF CORZINE ACHIEVES HIS GOAL

Assembly Republican Leader Alex DeCroce, Conference Leader Peter Biondi, and Assemblyman Kevin O’Toole today said the goal set yesterday by Governor Jon Corzine that the state limit property tax growth to 3 percent per year while allowing municipalities to impose local taxes is wrong and goes against the hopes and wishes of New Jersey’s beleaguered property taxpayers.

“From speaking to taxpayers, I believe they will revolt if the Democrats in the state adopt Governor Corzine’s property tax increase plan,” said DeCroce, R-Morris and Passaic. “After five years of record property tax increases, the people of New Jersey want a reduction in their property taxes, not more increases.”

Governor Corzine said on New Jersey 101.5 radio that his goal is to slow the growth in property tax rates saying, “Hopefully, we'll get it down to 3 percent or less.”

“People want the result of this property tax reform process to be substantive relief from our state’s oppressive property tax burden and permanent reform of the system,” said Biondi, R-Somerset and Morris. “I do not believe that merely slowing the growth in property taxes next year will satisfy most homeowners who are currently struggling to make ends meet.”

Corzine talked about allowing municipalities to impose other taxes as a means of relieving the property tax burden. Corzine’s plan seems to conflict with public opinion reflected in a poll conducted by the Monmouth University Polling Institute that was released today.

That poll found taxpayers are opposed to higher state income or sales taxes as well as school funding cuts in any effort to reduce property taxes. Two-thirds said they oppose increasing income taxes and more than 60 percent were against hiking sales taxes.

“We have been working hard in the property tax reform committees to come up with solutions that will help us to lower property taxes,” O’Toole said. “The taxpayers want to see a reduction in their tax burden, not merely a shifting of that burden.”

This is the second time Gov. Corzine has talked about property tax relief in terms of slowing growth rather than reducing tax bills. Earlier this year he set a goal of reducing projected property tax growth by about 20 percent by the year 2010 – just four years from now.

Property taxes have increased by more than 30 percent in the past five years. If the state had reduced that growth by 20 percent property taxes still would have increased by more than 25 percent in the past five years.

“What ever happened to the Democrats promise to cut property taxes in their much vaunted 40-in-4 plan last year,” DeCroce noted.  “The Democrat spin was that the decision to shut down government was to give us property tax relief, but instead we got more taxes and more pork.”

Property taxes increased by over $1.1 billion last year and that a 20 percent reduction in that growth would account for only $230 million in reductions. There was $480 million in pork spending in this year’s budget alone, and Assembly Republicans identified $2.2 billion in waste to cut.

“Republicans on the budget committee have been committed to finding ways that we can reduce state spending,” O’Toole said. “Meaningful property tax relief will result from a meaningful commitment to rein-in wasteful and unnecessary government spending.”

“If not for the pork and wasteful spending in this budget I am convinced that we could lower property tax bills,” Biondi said. “But to achieve that goal the Democrats must be serious about cutting spending and waste, not just shifting revenues."

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October 16, 2006

ROONEY: BERGEN COUNTY COALITION TO PUT SCHOOL FUNDING FORMULA ON TRIAL GAINS TRACTION

Taking lessons learned from the Abbott vs. Burke decision, Assemblyman John Rooney and officials from Bergen County have started a coalition to file a lawsuit against the State for allowing discriminatory school funding practices. Several Bergen County towns have already contributed funds to get the litigation process started and many mayors have voiced support and willingness to contribute money in a cross-district, county-wide effort to override the inefficient and irrational funding system.

“I am very pleased to see the support from my fellow lawmakers and mayors  who are willing to stand beside me and take on the challenge to overturn this awful practice,” said Rooney, R-Bergen. “We have been ramping up efforts to get all 70 municipalities on board. While most are reviewing the proposal, I have received confirmations from eight towns, five of which contributed funds.”

Townships of Upper Saddle River, Alpine, Rockleigh, Haworth, and Northvale have contributed $500 each to start the litigation process; Norwood, Closter, Harrington Park, Westwood, Hillsdale and Woodcliff Lake are in the process of reviewing the proposal.

In addition to support from municipalities, Excellent Education for Everyone (E3), a public advocacy group supporting school choice, has been in discussion with Rooney and is considering the proposal to join Bergen County in the lawsuit.

Rooney reiterated, “The current funding formula makes absolutely no sense. School districts in Bergen County receive much less money than other affluent districts in counties such as Morris, Hunterdon, Warren and Sussex. The numbers comparing Bergen county to these other districts clearly illustrate just how much disparity there is in the funding.”

Bergen County aims to contend that the inequitable school funding is unconstitutional. “While Bergen received only $201.3 million in the 05-’06 school year, neighboring Essex received $1.133 billion and Hudson got $729 million. Both counties are less populated than Bergen, but get 3-5 times more in state aid without a comprehensive system or policy evaluating actual need,” he said. “New Jersey is the only state to use this inefficient system.”

Rooney suggested, “if we use the courts to show how a funding formula that does not use a list of priorities such as necessity, enrollment and performance is inefficient and discriminatory in practice, the State would have no choice but balance school funding without bitter and time consuming politicking in the Legislature.”

Many citizens and local leaders have voiced their concerns at a productive town meeting in Westwood on Thursday. Rooney called for their support and outlined the plan of action. Rooney said, “We can’t make the problem go away with legislation, we must do it through litigation.”

At the meeting, Rockleigh Mayor Nick Langella said “It isn’t fair that a small percentage of the towns are getting the lion’s share of the tax money.”

Bergen County, among many other counties in the State, is dealing with soaring property taxes which were raised unwillingly to make up for essentially frozen funds from the State due to the Abbott vs. Burke court ruling.

At the meeting, Rooney and Assemblywoman Charlotte Vandervalk also discussed Assembly bill A-1101 which would allow residents unhappy with the quality of schooling in their district to enroll in a different district. Parallel to E3, they argue such a measure would improve the quality of education by making sure students aren’t forced to stay in unproductive school districts.

“I encourage every Bergen County township leader and citizen to help us by contributing seed money for litigation, and stridently denounce this unfair practice” said Rooney.

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October 13, 2006

MERKT SENDS LETTER REQUESTING FINANCIAL DATA FROM JERSEY CITY MEDICAL CENTER

Assemblyman Richard Merkt today sent a letter to officials with the Jersey City Medical Center requesting financial data with respect to all hospital expenditures on public and community relations, lobbying, and legal services provided by, or on behalf of, the hospital.

“I am writing to you as a member of the Assembly Appropriations Committee to request certain information about the expenditures of Jersey City Medical Center and its business practices,” Merkt said in the letter. “I would appreciate a full and timely response in light of the millions of  taxpayer dollars that Jersey City Medical Center is receiving every week.”

Jersey City Medical Center (JCMC) received $52.2 million in charity care funding in each of the last two years, and also was given a last-minute $25.7 million supplemental appropriation in this year’s budget.

An audit of the medical center was requested when officials went to the state seeking additional dollars, and that audit was presented to LibertyHealth board members three weeks ago. It was not made public, but immediately after the meeting JCMC CEO Jonathan Metsch stepped down – a decision reportedly tied to the audit.

A copy of the letter sent by Merkt is below:

Dear Sir or Madam:

I am writing to you as a member of the Assembly Appropriations Committee to request certain information about the expenditures of Jersey City Medical Center and its business practices.  I would appreciate a full and timely response in light of the millions of  taxpayer dollars that Jersey City Medical Center is receiving every week.

Please provide the following information with respect to all public and community relations, lobbying, and legal services provided by, or on behalf of, the hospital:

1)  The names and salaries of all employees of the hospital;

2)  A listing of each vendor, together with the most recent contract and the amount of payment made to each vendor for services rendered during the previous 12 month period; and

3) Dues paid to associations or lobbying organizations representing the hospital before Congress, the Legislature, or any regulatory agencies.

Thank you in advance for your anticipated quick response.

Respectfully,

Richard Merkt
Assemblyman 25th Legislative District

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October 13, 2006

MERKT: TREASURY AND LEGISLATORS CAN RUN FROM AN OPRA REQUEST, BUT NOT A SUBPOENA

Assemblyman Richard Merkt today said that while Treasury officials may be stonewalling his request for documents about how legislators steered state grant money to certain programs, the administration will not have the same luxury now that U.S. Attorney Christopher Christie is seeking similar documents.

“The information the U.S. Attorney is seeking regarding Senator Bryant is likely very similar to the documents I am seeking regarding how other legislators may have steered funds to programs in which they have a financial interest,” said Merkt, R-Morris. “Hopefully Treasury will now have second thoughts about trying to hide this information from the public.”

The Star-Ledger today reported that the state treasurer’s office received a subpoena from U.S. Attorney Chris Christie this week seeking documents on state Sen. Wayne Bryant’s public pensions and his lobbying on behalf of a former employer, the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey (UMDNJ).

Merkt has asked Treasury to comply with an Open Public Records Act (OPRA) request from earlier this year which asked for details and documentation about how Treasury was guided by legislators in distributing $128 million in state grant money in the last two state budgets.

At t