Reverse the reduction of Stay NJ checks

504

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The Issue

As a senior citizen living in New Jersey, I am greatly concerned with the recent reduction of Stay NJ checks. This reversal in policy is a harsh blow not only to me but also to countless fellow seniors who are already grappling with the escalating costs of living, including soaring medical expenses and diminishing social security benefits. We dedicated years to nurturing and building our communities, and the assistance provided through Stay NJ was a recognition of our efforts and an essential resource in maintaining our quality of life.

The Stay NJ initiative was designed to offer financial relief to senior residents, allowing us to remain in the state we have called home for decades. For many, this support was not just beneficial but vital, helping bridge the gap between fixed incomes and rising expenses. The decision to reduce these checks undermines the foundation of economic security that many seniors rely upon, contributing to increased financial strain and anxiety.

The cost of healthcare in New Jersey ranks among the highest in the nation. A report from the Kaiser Family Foundation highlights that the average annual out-of-pocket cost for a Medicare beneficiary exceeds $5,000. Additionally, the Senior Citizens League reports that typical increases to social security benefits often fail to keep pace with actual increases in living expenses, leaving many of us vulnerable.

Reversing this decision is not just about fairness but about dignity and respect for those who have worked tirelessly to contribute to the prosperity of New Jersey. There are viable alternatives that can be considered to offset budgetary concerns without sacrificing the wellbeing of the state's senior residents. For instance, reviewing and reallocating state funds from less critical areas or implementing slight increases in luxury taxes could potentially safeguard the Stay NJ program’s sustainability.

I urge the New Jersey state legislature and Governor's office to revisit this decision. By restoring the full checks, you stand with the senior community, ensuring that we can continue to live with the dignity and peace of mind that we deserve in our golden years.

Join me in calling for the reversal of this decision to cut Stay NJ checks. Our voices united can spark the change needed to safeguard the rights and welfare of seniors throughout New Jersey. Please sign this petition to show your support.

The Decision Makers

Shirley Turner
New Jersey State Senate - District 15
Responded
I understand the disappointment and financial concern caused by the changes to the Stay NJ program. Many seniors planned their household budgets based on the benefits they had been told to expect. New Jersey continues to have among the highest property taxes in the nation, and residents are managing those costs alongside rising expenses for healthcare, utilities, groceries, gas, and other everyday necessities. Before the Fiscal Year 2027 budget was finalized, I raised concerns with Senate Leadership and asked that the proposed Stay NJ changes be taken into consideration during budget negotiations. Programs such as Stay NJ, Senior Freeze, and ANCHOR are important tools for helping residents, particularly senior citizens and those on fixed incomes, remain in their homes and communities. At the same time, New Jersey must pursue long-term solutions to its broken property tax system. Our current system relies too heavily on property taxes to fund education and essential local services. I am the sponsor of SCR75, which proposes allowing a constitutional convention to recommend comprehensive reforms to the State’s property tax system. I also sponsor S3227, which would authorize municipalities to assess proportionate impact fees on new development so that the costs of infrastructure and public services made necessary by that growth do not fall disproportionately on existing property taxpayers. I will continue to raise the concerns I have received from seniors and advocate for dependable, meaningful, and sustainable property tax relief. I also believe the effects of the Stay NJ changes should be reviewed as future budgets and potential revisions to the program are considered. The signers of the petition who do not reside in the 15th legislative district may wish to share their concerns with their representatives and can find their contact information at njleg.state.nj.us. [Note: The Change.org Civic Engagement Team reaches out to decision makers to let them know about petitions in their community and to help facilitate engagement with supporters. The above was an email response we received regarding this petition.]
New Jersey General Assembly
2 Members
Verlina Reynolds-Jackson
New Jersey General Assembly - District 15
Anthony Verrelli
New Jersey General Assembly - District 15
Rebecca Sherrill
New Jersey Governor

Supporter Voices

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