N.J. Dems aim to revive jobs plan

    Democratic leaders in the New Jersey Legislature will try to override Governor Chris Christie’s recent veto of a package of job-creation bills. The vote is set for Thursday.

    Previous efforts by Democrats to override Christie’s vetoes of legislation have been unsuccessful. Republicans have sided with Christie in rejecting an income-tax surcharge on the state’s wealthiest residents as well as funding for family planning.

    Senate President Steve Sweeney said Monday he’s hopeful the outcome this time will be different.

    “This is about jobs, and people desperately need jobs in this state,” said Sweeney. “So, hopefully, they decide to stand with the people instead of the governor on this one.”

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    The jobs bills won bipartisan approval in the Legislature. Christie vetoed them because he said sponsors did not identify how to pay for the tax credits and incentives the measures would provide.

    Assembly Republican Conference leader Jon Bramnick said Monday he anticipates Republican lawmakers will vote against the override when it’s put to a vote Thursday.

    Assembly Speaker Sheila Oliver argued that the bills passed the Legislature with bipartisan support before the governor rejected them. She’s calling on Republicans who supported the measures to vote for the veto override.

    “We believe that our colleagues need to step up and take a position for the people. How can you have supported these bills within the past 30 days and now not support them?” said Oliver. “They’re very responsible pieces of legislation.”

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