Mercer Times

Governor Phil Murphy has signed the Fiscal Year 2025 Appropriations Act, a $56.7 billion budget aimed at increasing affordability and creating economic opportunities in New Jersey. The budget, which was approved by the Legislature earlier in the day, includes direct property tax relief for homeowners and renters, record school funding, a fourth full pension payment, and introduces the Corporate Transit Fee to support NJ TRANSIT. It also provides a $6.1 billion surplus to help the state handle future financial challenges.

Governor Murphy stated, "With this budget, we are going to make life more affordable for more families." He emphasized that nearly half of the budget is dedicated to providing property tax relief.

The governor addressed recent disruptions in rail service by meeting with Amtrak Chairman Tony Coscia and other officials to improve reliability on the Northeast Corridor. "Over the past several weeks, commuters have endured countless delays and cancellations," he noted.

Murphy also announced his intent to nominate Colonel Yvonne L. Mays as Adjutant General and Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs following Major General Lisa J. Hou's new assignment as Director of the Office of the Joint Surgeon General, National Guard Bureau. Colonel Mays will be acting in her new role from July 1st pending Senate confirmation. She will be the first Black woman to lead the New Jersey National Guard.

Reflecting on Major General Hou's tenure since October 2020, Murphy praised her commitment during challenging times: “Leading her teams through some of the most demanding times in our history... I am deeply grateful for her years of service.” Currently, around 1,500 New Jersey Army National Guard Soldiers are deployed overseas.

Major General Hou expressed pride in her service: “This has been the honor of my professional life.” Colonel Mays added that she is ready for transformation within the department: “Together, we will continue... supporting Garden State heroes.”

Governor Murphy criticized a recent Supreme Court decision overturning the "Chevron Doctrine," stating it undermines federal agencies' abilities to protect public health and safety. He commented on its impact: "This ruling will allow un-elected judges across America to single-handedly overrule... decisions made by experts."

Murphy reaffirmed New Jersey's commitment to science-based policy-making despite federal rulings: “Despite this morning’s ruling... At this pivotal moment, the people of New Jersey are counting on our state’s leaders."