Tuesday, February 23, 2010

LET THE BATTLE BEGIN!!!

Yesterday, the N. J. State Senate voted unanimously on a package of three bills aimed at reducing pensions and benefits (S2, S3, and S4) - each passed by a 36 - 0 vote (Sens. Baroni, Rice, and Turner did not vote; Sen. Allen was not present.) For information on these bills, go to njea.org. There was no deliberation or discussion of the impact of these bills that were introduced 14 days ago.

The battle now moves to the Assembly. The Assembly leadership committed to a more deliberative process, which will include public discussion.

NJEA is urging all members to immediately contact their Assembly members, and tell them to oppose these bills. We have planned additional lobby days for March 8, 11, and 15. If you or your members would like to attend, please contact the UniServ office, and we will notify our Government Relations contact. Locals may want to plan cyber lobby lunches or after-school activities around these issues.

In addition, members should contact members of the State Senate, and express their disappointment with their vote.

Please keep a watchful eye to njea.org for up to the minute information.