Governor Murphy's final budget proposal has been met with mixed reactions from advocacy groups. For the Many NJ, a coalition of over 40 organizations, expressed concerns that while the proposal acknowledges the need for new revenue, it does not sufficiently address New Jersey's long-term fiscal challenges.
Eric Benson, Campaign Director for For the Many NJ, stated, "Governor Murphy’s final budget proposal acknowledges the need for new revenue, but it still falls short of the bold action required to fix New Jersey’s long-term fiscal challenges." He added that although some new taxes and fees are included to reduce the deficit, they are inadequate and leave critical priorities underfunded.
Benson emphasized that while the Governor's budget avoids a worst-case scenario, it relies on temporary solutions that do not address structural deficits. "The Governor’s budget may have avoided the worst-case scenario, but let’s be clear: patchwork solutions won’t solve a structural deficit," he said. He warned against relying on hope without sustainable revenue sources as this could lead to deeper cuts and instability in future years.
With potential federal funding cuts on the horizon, Benson urged New Jersey's Legislature to take further action. He stressed that merely avoiding severe outcomes is insufficient and called for a budget that truly invests in New Jersey's future.
For The Many NJ advocates for expanded funding of essential services and improved budgeting practices to meet both current and future needs. The coalition particularly focuses on communities historically left behind.
