TRENTON, NJ — Assemblyman Brian Bergen (R-Morris) has raised concerns regarding the newly announced StayNJ task force, particularly about the lack of clarity on the payment of its members. Gov. Phil Murphy’s failure to disclose the salary of the task force’s executive director has sparked criticism.
Bergen pointed out that while New Jersey seniors await tax credits promised under the StayNJ law, the executive director, appointed by Murphy, will be paid from the $2 million allocated to the task force.
This payment is set to occur over the next 24 months, potentially amounting to more than $83,000 per month if the entire fund is used for the salary.
The StayNJ program, with a projected cost of $1.3 billion, has been allocated only $600 million: $100 million in FY2024, $200 million in FY2025, and $300 million in 2026. The first tax credit under the program is not expected until 2026.
Bergen criticized the structure and feasibility of the program, arguing that it imposes an additional financial burden on taxpayers without clear benefits. He also highlighted the general inefficiency in the state’s governance under the Democrats, citing delays in the implementation of various programs, including unemployment and ANCHOR checks, and the slow processing of benefits for people on disability and family leave.