We are senior citizens of beautiful New Jersey who have been dutifully paying taxes for the last 28 years. Specifically, a significant portion of our taxes goes towards funding public education for pre-school through high school. We don't complain about the value of education; our son is a product of these schools and, graduating from Shawnee High School in 2002, has benefited greatly.

However, we feel it is unreasonable that we, at the ages of 74 and 84, continue to bear the financial burden of education taxes. Our child-rearing days are long behind us and yet, we're still financially contributing to the education of every student in the state with no tax reduction. This puts a massive financial strain on us and the senior community at large in New Jersey.

Consider data from the U.S. Census that pegs the average tax rate in New Jersey at 2.42%, the highest in the nation. This, combined with the fact that educational expenses make up an average of 35% of a New Jersey homeowner’s property tax bill (Center on Budget and Policy Priorities), poses an undue financial burden on seniors like us.

We are not desiring to shirk from our communal responsibilities, but we must also consider our own financial solvency in our twilight years. Consequently, we are calling on New Jersey lawmakers to revise the tax code and provide an education tax reduction or even elimination for seniors in our state.

This petition isn't just about us. It is about the economic well-being and dignity of every senior citizen in New Jersey. Please join us in calling for an overhaul of the taxation system, one that gives relief to seniors. The state should consider its older adults who've already raised their children and invested in New Jersey's education system. It's time seniors received a break on education taxes. Please sign this petition if you agree.