Garden State Times

Legislators from New Jersey's 9th District have voiced concerns over Governor Murphy's proposed FY2026 State Budget. Senator Carmen Amato, Jr., Assemblyman Brian Rumpf, and Assemblyman Gregory Myhre issued a statement criticizing the budget for exacerbating the state's affordability crisis.

Senator Amato, a member of the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee, stated that the proposed budget "includes more big government spending policies" and fails to address the cost-of-living issues affecting working families and seniors. He emphasized the financial strain on taxpayers due to property tax increases, utility rate hikes, and other rising costs.

Assemblyman Rumpf, part of the Assembly Budget Committee, pointed out that Governor Murphy acknowledged issues in school funding but has not provided adequate solutions. Rumpf mentioned past legislative efforts to limit reductions in state school aid and expressed readiness to work towards reforming the school funding formula.

Assemblyman Myhre, serving on the Assembly Appropriations Committee, criticized the budget for escalating state spending and increasing taxes. He highlighted concerns over firearm fee increases targeting gun owners and called for reduced government spending as a solution to New Jersey's cost-of-living crisis.

The legislators collectively urged for tax relief and school aid reform to be prioritized over expanding government programs. They stressed that many residents are struggling with affordability due to current fiscal policies.