NJCM Issues Statement Regarding the Passing of Pension and Health Care Benefit Reforms Bill

New Jersey Conference of Mayors
Statement Regarding the passing of Pension and Health Care Benefit Reforms bill S-2937 
For Release: June 24, 2011
Contact: Peter C. Oesterwinter

Trenton, NJ The New Jersey Conference of Mayors [NJCM] applauds the passing of the Reform Bill S-2937, which adopts reform to pension and health care programs for public employees. The bill passed the Assembly Thursday, June 23 by a vote of 46-32 and is expected to be signed into law by Governor Christie Monday, June 27. The NJCM recognizes that while these reforms will be difficult for public employees, they are necessary to lower skyrocketing property taxes in our state.

NJCM President and Mayor of Lambertville, David DelVecchio  stated: “ I thank the Governor, Senate President and  Speaker of the Assembly for working together on a solution that will benefit our taxpayers.”

The NJCM and member Mayors support this decision, and are ready to work with all public employees and their municipalities to implement these changes necessary to lower municipal budgets and keep taxes within the new two percent cap.
“Governor Christie has achieved a landmark bipartisan effort to reform, which will become a National model for all Government to aspire to.” Stated Executive Board Member and Mayor of Hope, Timothy McDonough.

The NJCM also thanks the Governor, Senate President and Speaker of the Assembly for their leadership during this process. We have had, and continue to have an open dialogue with the staff of the Governor and Legislative Leadership to discuss important issues such as these.