N.J. Assembly passes $32B state budget plan

Days before the end-of-the-month deadline, New Jersey lawmakers voted along party lines to pass a new state budget that was introduced by majority Democrats.

All of the Democrats in the Senate and Assembly voted for the $31.7 billion spending plan.

Assemblyman Gary Schaer says he believes residents are willing to wait to ensure a planned tax cut is affordable.

“I believe the people of New Jersey first and foremost–before they want a tax decrease–want a fiscally prudent and fiscally responsible Legislature,” he said.

Republican Senator Joe Pennachio says Republicans could not support the budget because it delays implementing the tax cut until state revenues improve.

“I urge the governor to re-prioritize this budget,” he said. “Take our your red pen governor. Let’s put taxpayers first.”

Republicans expect Governor Christie will make significant line items vetoes to the budget bill.