More than 40 unions, community organizations, and advocacy groups in New Jersey have urged Governor Phil Murphy and legislative leaders to take immediate action to increase revenue from the state’s wealthiest households and largest corporations. The coalition, known as For The Many, delivered a letter calling for reforms in response to recent federal tax breaks that benefit high-income individuals and corporations while reducing funding for healthcare, food assistance, and other essential services.
The coalition says these federal cuts could remove billions of dollars from New Jersey’s healthcare system. As a result, at least 800,000 residents may face higher coverage costs and reduced benefits.
Eric Benson, Coalition Manager for For the Many, stated: “New Jersey families are already struggling with skyrocketing housing costs, unreliable transit, and rising prices for groceries and utilities. The wealthy and well-connected got the biggest handouts from Washington. Now it’s time for them to pay their fair share so we can protect the healthcare, housing, and services our communities need.”
The group is asking state leaders to enact two major reforms during the upcoming legislative session. According to the coalition, these measures would help offset federal funding losses and support investments in areas such as healthcare, housing, education, transit services, and affordability programs.
Maura Collinsgru, Director of Policy & Advocacy for New Jersey Citizen Action said: “Families are struggling with skyrocketing costs and a tsunami of federal cuts to essential programs. Every delay means higher costs for families, deeper holes in the state budget, and more families being pushed to the brink. Our coalition stands ready to work with New Jersey’s elected officials to pass these critical reforms and ensure we have the revenue needed to invest in programs New Jersey families are counting on.”
For The Many describes itself as a statewide coalition made up of over 30 organizations working toward changes in New Jersey’s tax code so that it better serves all residents rather than only wealthy individuals or large businesses. Members include labor unions; grassroots groups; immigrant justice advocates; environmental leaders; anti-poverty organizations; and policy experts throughout the state.
