Garden State Times

Senate Republican Leader Anthony M. Bucco met with representatives from the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (EDA) and local business owners to address the ongoing difficulties caused by sinkholes on Interstate 80 in Wharton. The meeting focused on exploring assistance programs for affected businesses.

"I met with officials from the New Jersey Economic Development Authority and local business owners who have been severely impacted by the ongoing sinkhole crisis on Interstate 80 to discuss various assistance options, including a grant program, to help these businesses recover," said Sen. Bucco. "The impact of this disruption has been significant and it is critical that we act swiftly to provide the necessary relief to those affected. I am fully committed to working alongside our local businesses to ensure they receive the support they need during this challenging time."

Sen. Bucco has proposed the "Road to Relief" package, which aims to offer financial aid and tax relief to those impacted by the construction on I-80. The bills included in this package are:

S-4369, which would establish an EDA grant program. This program is aimed at supporting increased transportation costs for commuters, employees, and businesses affected by public highway projects, such as the one on Interstate 80.

S-4370, which seeks to provide sales tax remittance credits for businesses affected by these highway projects and offers tax credits for both businesses and individuals impacted by the same.