Sr13

TRENTON – A resolution sponsored by Senator Ellen Karcher which calls on Congress to enact the “School Energy Crisis Relief Act,” a federal energy assistance program for public school districts, was approved by the Senate today by a voice vote.

“With the price of oil still in flux, and the potential for bigger gas price hikes in the future, school districts are being hit the hardest when it comes to paying for heating,” said Senator Karcher, D-Monmouth and Mercer. “Many of these districts, such as my own school district in Marlboro, are on tight budgets as is, and are even considering turning off the heat to make ends meet. It is incumbent on public officials to provide a safe and comfortable learning environment for our kids to thrive, and high heating costs are jeopardizing that environment.”

TRENTON – Today, the Senate Education Committee approved Senate Resolution 13, sponsored by Senator Ellen Karcher, which calls on Congress and the President to enact the “School Energy Crisis Relief Act” currently pending on Capitol Hill.

“New Jersey schools are feeling the pinch of dramatically higher energy costs this year –resulting in tough cuts to bridge the gap,” said Senator Karcher, D-Mercer and Monmouth. “Already, Marlboro Township schools are counteracting higher costs by lowering their thermostats, creating a less productive learning environment for our students. As a mother, this is an unacceptable solution and the federal government needs to take action in addressing this national problem.”