TRENTON – Senator Joseph F. Vitale, D-Middlesex, the Chair of the Senate Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee, issued the following statement regarding Governor Corzine’s FY 2008 Budget Address:
“Governor Corzine’s proposed budget, while increasing property tax assistance and meeting mandated cost increases, unfortunately does not have a lot of room for new investment in worthwhile programs. However, he mentioned that he remains committed to changing the paradigm of mandated expenses, and is looking for ways to fund universal health care.
“I have been working with the Governor to explore every possibility in terms of providing basic health care coverage to every New Jerseyan that needs it. Even though it looks like we will not be able to fund a universal health care program this fiscal year, I’m encouraged that he remains dedicated to the prospects of the proposal, and will continue working with him to make it a reality for the Garden State.”