GOP NJ Lawmakers To Channel Budget Discontent

ANGELA DELLI SANTI

TRENTON, N.J. (AP) — Republicans in the New Jersey Assembly plan to express their opposition to Democratic Gov. Jon Corzine's proposed $28.6 billion budget on Thursday by channeling the voices of disgruntled taxpayers in their home districts.

As the Assembly's minority party, the GOP is powerless on its own to thwart passage of the spending plan, which is scheduled for a final vote Thursday. But by reading into the record excerpts from constituent e-mails they have solicited on the proposal, Republicans contend they will enable voters to be heard during the debate.

"People are worried about consistent increases — property taxes, income taxes, loss of rebates, the fact that you can't deduct your property taxes on New Jersey tax forms," said Assembly Republican Leader Alex DeCroce. "We thought this would be a good opportunity to let the people have their voice."

The budget Gov. Jon Corzine proposed for the fiscal year that starts July 1 reduces state spending by $4 billion, but increases taxes on liquor, wine, cigarettes and the wealthy; extends a 4 percent corporate business tax surcharge that was due to expire; and suspends property tax rebates for all but seniors and the disabled.