Oroho Legislation Builds Upon NJ’s Commitment to Military Veterans
Two bills sponsored by Senator Steve Oroho (R-24) that strengthen New Jersey’s commitment to its military veterans passed the Senate today.
“Each and every day, members of our armed forces put their lives on the line and go months without seeing family and friends so that we can be safe at home, ” Oroho said. “We need to ensure those who have served our country, and those who support them, receive the benefits, care, and assistance they deserve.”
Oroho-McHose-Chiusano Laud Governor’s Commitment to Helmets to Hats Program
State Senator Steve Oroho, Assemblywoman Alison Littell McHose and Assemblyman Gary Chiusano, all R-24, said New Jersey’s veterans received welcome news on Thursday with the announcement by Governor Christie that he has approved $195,000 to be used by the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development in partnership with the New Jersey Building and Construction Trades Council’s Helmets to Hardhats (H2H) program. The New Jersey H2H program helps military personnel making the changeover from active duty to the civilian work force. The program also includes National Guard and reserve members who have civilian jobs but are looking for better employment opportunities.
“Those who serve in the military are owed a debt of gratitude by everyone who lives in this country,” said Oroho. “The Helmets to Hardhats program is one way New Jersey shows its appreciation for the sacrifices made by those in the armed services. At a time when many people are facing an uncertain future, the H2H program is an opportunity for veterans to find a good-paying job by completing a reputable training program.”
Oroho/Bucco Bill Assists Businesses Who Employ Military Members
Tax Credit Offered For When Employees Are Called Up to Active Duty
Legislation sponsored by Senators Steve Oroho (R-24) and Anthony Bucco (R-25) that provides tax credits to businesses who have employees that are called up for active duty military service was passed by the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee today.
“Some employers may be hesitant to hire and invest in the training of an individual who serves in the National Guard or a reserve component of the armed forces because they may be concerned that a leave of absence will provide an undue financial hardship to their business, ”
Doherty Praises the Borough of Ramsey’s Support of the Fair School Funding Plan
Senator Michael Doherty, a member of the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee, issued the following statement regarding the Borough of Ramsey’s support of his Fair School Funding Plan:
Doherty to Hold Town Hall Meeting on “Fair School Funding” Plan in Bridgewater
Senator Michael Doherty, a member of the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee, announced today that he will hold a town hall meeting September 21, at 8:15 P.M. in the Bridgewater Public Library, 1 Vogt Drive, Bridgewater.
Senate Republican Leader Tom Kean: Trenton Democrats Have Found Religion on Job Creation
Senate Republican Leader Tom Kean issued the following statement on tomorrow’s Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee meeting which will focus on job creation and economic growth:
“For the past decade, Republicans across the state have been calling for, and proposing, policies that would create jobs and opportunities for middle-class New Jerseyans. For years, Republicans have been asking for tax incentives for small business and other business friendly policies like the single sales factor that were just recently signed into law by Governor Christie.
Doherty to Hold Town Hall Meeting in Robbinsville on “Fair School Funding” Plan
Senator Michael Doherty, a member of the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee, announced today that he will hold a town hall meeting on his “Fair School Funding” plan. The town hall meeting will be held Tuesday, September 20 at 7:00 PM Robbinsville Township Senior Center, 56 Robbinsville Allentown Road, Robbinsville, NJ.
Senator Joe Pennacchio: State Settles With Lehman Brothers
New Jersey Recovers $8.2 Million from Bankrupt Investment Bank
Senator Joe Pennacchio, a member of the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee who represents Morris and Passaic counties, announced today that the State of New Jersey has settled with Lehman Brothers for $8.2 million.
The Senator noted sadly that it has been more than three years since he first asked for answers about the state’s $192 million loss on an investment in the bankrupt investment bank. The investment came less than four months before Lehman, one of the largest Wall Street investment banks, went into receivership.
Oroho-McHose-Chiusano: Some In Elizabeth Are Finding Out There Is No Such Thing As A Free Lunch
State Senator Steve Oroho, Assemblywoman Alison McHose and Assemblyman Gary Chiusano, all R-24, said that today’s news report on the arrest of Elizabeth School Board President Marie Munn on charges of third degree theft by deception and third degree tampering with public records or information related to the free lunch program is not terribly surprising given the lack of credible answers she provided when questioned. In addition to Ms. Munn’s arrest, the ex-wife of school principal Carlos Lucio; and Peter Abitanto, husband of Marlene Abitanto, the district’s supervisor of custodians, also face similar charges. If found guilty, each of the accused faces up to five years in prison.
Oroho, McHose and Chiusano said much more is involved in this issue than the fraudulent applications submitted to participate in the free lunch program. A State Auditor report issued in June that sampled 10 school districts indicated that state aid is increased between $4, 700 and $5, 700 for each student enrolled in the lunch program. The audit also found that 37 percent of students in the program were ineligible.
Kean Bill Allowing Pets to Be Included in Domestic Violence Protection Orders Passes Committee
Legislation sponsored by Senator Tom Kean (R-Union) that authorizes courts to include animals in domestic violence restraining orders was passed by the Senate Judiciary Committee today.
“The unfortunate reality is that pets can be the victims of domestic abuse just like people, yet they lack the legal recognition to be protected under current law, ” Kean stated. “I have heard too many heartbreaking stories of victims of domestic violence who will stay with their abuser for fear of what will happen to their pets. We need to encourage victims to leave these abusive relationships and reassure them that their pets will be protected.”
