NJ Spotlight News has this afternoon’s live stream of Governor Phil Murphy’s State of the State Address starting at 3 p.m.
Some context via veteran Statehouse reporter John Reitmeyer of NJ Spotlight News:
“More than $3.5 billion was earmarked for direct property-tax relief programs in the current state budget enacted by Murphy and lawmakers last June.
“And in recent months, many residents have been receiving property-tax relief benefits through the state-funded Anchor program that range from $450 to $1,750 per eligible recipient, depending on age, income and residency.
“The distribution of Anchor benefits and other state-funded property-tax relief comes as New Jersey’s notoriously high property-tax bills were averaging a record, more than $9,800 statewide, according to data released last year by the state Department of Community Affairs.
“To be sure, the Anchor program includes benefits for income-eligible tenants, a recognition of the burden rising property taxes place on tenants who help fund their landlords’ local levies via monthly rent payments.
“Yet Anchor benefits for eligible renters who are not senior citizens have remained flat — at $450 — for the last several years, even as the latest inflation data from the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates shelter prices, including the cost of residential rent, remain high and are still on the rise.
“Moreover, as Murphy and fellow Democrats who control the Legislature prepare to roll out a new relief program for senior homeowners that’s been dubbed Stay NJ, the current design of that program would prohibit renters from receiving any benefits at all while some homeowners could eventually collect as much as $6,500 annually.”
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On January 14, 2020, Governor Phil Murphy delivered his third State of the State address to the people of New Jersey. The address, which was live streamed by Insider NJ, provided an overview of the accomplishments of the past year and outlined the governor’s priorities for the year ahead.
During his speech, Governor Murphy highlighted several key achievements from his first two years in office. He discussed the progress that has been made in areas such as education, healthcare, and environmental protection. The governor also emphasized his commitment to creating a more inclusive and fairer New Jersey for all residents.
One of the main focuses of Governor Murphy’s address was the state’s economy. He spoke about the importance of creating good-paying jobs and investing in infrastructure to support economic growth. The governor also discussed his plans to continue working towards a $15 minimum wage and expanding access to affordable healthcare for all residents.
In addition to economic issues, Governor Murphy addressed the need for criminal justice reform in New Jersey. He highlighted the steps that have been taken to reduce mass incarceration and improve reentry programs for individuals returning to society after serving time in prison.
Overall, Governor Murphy’s State of the State address provided a comprehensive overview of the progress that has been made in New Jersey over the past year and outlined his vision for the future. The live stream provided an opportunity for residents to hear directly from the governor and learn about his priorities for the year ahead. As New Jersey continues to face challenges and opportunities, Governor Murphy’s leadership will be crucial in guiding the state towards a brighter future.
