Advocates from New Jersey gathered at the Statehouse, accompanied by Senator Britnee Timberlake, to demand tax justice at both state and federal levels. This rally took place just days before Governor Phil Murphy is set to deliver his final budget address.
The advocates urged Governor Murphy to choose between balancing the budget through cuts to essential programs or raising new revenue by targeting wealth and big corporations. The coalition called for increased taxes on the wealthy to strengthen New Jersey against uncertainties in Washington, DC, while supporting working families affected by rising costs.
Senator Brittnee Timberlake emphasized the importance of the state's legislature in filling funding gaps if federal support wanes. "We call on corporations to even step up and fill some of the funding gaps," she said.
Concerns were raised about potential federal tax breaks for millionaires and wealthy corporations, which could threaten state funding streams like Medicaid and SNAP. Peter Chen from New Jersey Policy Perspective stated, "We can’t let that happen in New Jersey — our state budget needs more revenue."
The coalition proposed revenue-raising solutions targeting ultra-wealthy individuals and profitable corporations. Maura Collinsgru from New Jersey Citizen Action highlighted the struggle of residents with rising living costs and advocated for taxing the wealthy instead of cutting essential programs.
Mercedes Morán from Make the Road New Jersey urged leaders to stand with working families by making the wealthy pay their fair share. Trina Scordo of NJ Communities United demanded investment in people rather than disparity.
Debbie White, RN, HPAE President, stressed fully funding public healthcare amid federal cuts. Dennis Trainor from CWA District 1 called for tax justice against federal threats.
Ben Dziobek criticized Governor Murphy's budget approach as aligning with corporate interests over public needs. Amy Torres from New Jersey Alliance for Immigrant Justice pointed out immigrant contributions to taxes and demanded protection for these communities.
The coalition For The Many consists of over 40 organizations advocating for expanded funding and improved budget practices in historically underserved communities.
