TRENTON, N.J. – Treasurer Elizabeth Muoio revealed today that the state received $6.3 billion in American Recovery Act funds yesterday to relieve New Jersey’s finances. The administration did not give any indication to the legislature over the past few months of budget hearings when they expected to receive the money, and there are still no plans despite aid being announced months ago. Recent guidance allows the funds to be used for any government service, but cannot be used for tax cuts, pensions or debt.
“The Murphy administration is a bush league administration that is as transparent as a stone,” said Assemblyman Hal Wirths (R-Sussex). “It’s hard to believe Murphy had no idea when this money was coming in. He doesn’t care about anything other than themselves and their own power. Every single person in New Jersey deserves to know what is going on in state government during an indefinite emergency, but nobody knows what is actually happening behind the scenes except for Murphy and his inner circle. This administration has been outrageous, now it is despicable.”
Republicans have been asking about plans for the money and when it may be received during each Assembly budget hearing.