NEWS FROM TRENTON - Future Stars (3-04)
NEWS FROM TRENTON - Reflections of My First Term (8-03)
NEWS FROM TRENTON - Sleepless in Trenton (7-03)
NEWS FROM TRENTON - Route 287 (10-02)
NEWS FROM TRENTON - Budget (7-02)
NEWS FROM TRENTON
September 1st, 2008
In 2004 I was one of the sponsors of the law that created the New Jersey Student Tuition Assistance Reward Scholarship Program (NJ STARS). This program provides a free education at our community colleges for any student who graduates in the top 20% of their high school class. The student must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher to be eligible to receive the scholarship for up to five consecutive semesters of full time college enrollment. In 2006 I was also one of the sponsors of the law that created STARS II. Under this program a STARS graduate can continue their education at our twelve public four year colleges. Under both programs the state reimburses the college slightly more than $4,000 per year to offset the cost of the student’s tuition. The program has been an outstanding success. There were 934 STARS students in 2004. That number rose to 2521 in 2007. STARS II students nearly doubled to a total of 263 in just one year. However the success of both programs has become a challenge to the state budget. As a result, the Governor initially proposed a family income eligibility cap of $100,000 on STARS scholars. As Chair of the Higher Education Committee I met with Governor Corzine in June and asked him to withdraw the income cap proposal and create a committee to study the STARS program and come up with suggestions to improve it. He agreed with my suggestion and formed a committee of which I am a member. We have had several meetings and expect to report back to the Governor by the end of September. Although the recommendations have not been finalized there has been general agreement among the committee members as to changes to the program. I will summarize some of them. STARS is an unmitigated success for our two year colleges such as Middlesex County College. President LaPerla Morales of Middlesex has told me about students who chose to attend Middlesex over Ivy League schools because of cost. The issue with STARS is the significant number of students who must take remedial courses during their first year of college. This is not because of lack of intelligence. It is the result of not taking appropriate preparatory courses in high school. I expect the committee to establish a more challenging required course load for STARS eligibility. In addition I have recommended that students be tested in their junior year of high school so they can take remedial courses, if necessary, before graduation. The challenge with STARS II is the cost not only to the state but to the four year colleges. Tuition and costs now total in excess of $8,000 per year. The state offsets less than half that cost through the program. The cost to the colleges and universities is becoming daunting. For example, Rutgers incurred nearly $1million this year to offset the cost of STARS II scholars. One of the suggested solutions is to limit the scholarship to tuition only and require the student to pay for costs and fees. We are evaluating various solutions to this problem. I expect a package of bills to be introduced and signed into law before the end of the year to address the concerns over the STARS program. In today’s global economy a college education is no longer a luxury. It is a necessity. I am proud that I have been a part of creating and preserving the STARS scholarships in New Jersey. If you have any questions or comments about STARS or any other issue affecting our state please contact me. My legislative office is located at 908 Oak Tree Road, (908)757-1677, email: Asmdiegnan@aol.com.
NEWS FROM TRENTON
August 30, 2007
It was a tremendous honor to have Governor Corzine come to South Plainfield to sign into law three pieces of legislation sponsored by Senator Buono, Assemblyman Barnes and me. As you can appreciate, the Governor’s time is limited and for him to come to our borough for an official bill signing ceremony is a special event. Many constituents have asked me exactly how does a legislator come up with the idea for a law and what is the process for a bill to become law. I will use the real life experience of the Governor signing into law Assembly Bill 3817 which I authored to explain how the process works. I am co chairman of the Committee on Business Efficiency in the Public Schools. In 2004 the committee issued a report that concluded that undiagnosed vision related learning problems ultimately lead to special education classification in a significant number of students. The cost to a school district may well exceed $100,000 per student per year to meet the needs of a classified student. It is believed that as many of 40% of special need students may have a vision issue. For example, a student skipping lines when reading may have a visual problem which is not detected in a simple eye exam. The child may ultimately be placed in special education as an underachiever. If he or she had been properly identified through a thorough eye examination the classification would never have occurred. I had several meetings with members of the New Jersey Society of Optometric Physicians whose input was invaluable in helping me draft the legislation. A3817 establishes a pilot project to conduct comprehensive eye exams for children in second grade in three districts throughout the state over a three year period. The physicians group even agreed to contribute $10,000 towards the cost of the program.
The bill was assigned to the Education Committee where I testified along with witnesses in support of the bill including the NJEA and the School Boards Association. It passed the committee unanimously with bipartisan support. Speaker Roberts then posted the bill for a vote of the entire Assembly where it passed unanimously. Senator Joe Doria sponsored the legislation in the State Senate. It was passed unanimously by the Education Committee and subsequently by the entire Senate. Next the legislation was thoroughly vetted by all departments which will be affected. It was then reviewed by the Attorney General. Senator Buono and I asked the Governor if he would honor us by coming to South Plainfield to sign it into law. The rest as they say is history. A 3817 is now the law of the state of New Jersey. It is my intention to expand the eye screening to every district in the state after we get the results of the pilot program. That will require another law and the process will take place all over again. I hope you have found this to be informative. If you have any questions or concerns about anything affecting our great state, please contact me at (908)757-1677 or email me at Asmdiegnan@njleg.org.
NEWS FROM TRENTON
March 30, 2007
The United States of America is the greatest democracy in the history of mankind. However, sometimes the most vulnerable of our citizens need a helping hand in having their needs addressed. Nothing is more rewarding to a legislator than giving those in need or those at risk a platform to be heard. During my five years in the State Assembly I have worked with many remarkable individuals to help develop legislation which will give protection to those who suffer from physical, mental or emotional disorders. I am the primary sponsor of two pieces of pending legislation which will hopefully improve the lives of many people at risk. Assembly Bill A-3570 entitled “Billy’s Law” which was unanimously passed by the Assembly Human Services Committee will monitor out of state educational facilities in which New Jersey children requiring special services are placed. As you may know, thousands of children are in facilities as far away as Florida because there are either no comparable schools in New Jersey or there are no places available within the state. Sadly there have been numerous instances of abuse or neglect in these out of state residences. In fact, the legislation is named in memory of a young man who died as a result of neglect. The law requires the Department of Human Services to develop core requirements which must be met by any out of state school or program before they will be added to a New Jersey approved registry. In addition regular inspections are required and any instance of abuse or neglect must be promptly reported along with the outcome and appropriate remedial action. It’s difficult enough that parents are forced to place their child in a location so far away that they cannot regularly visit or monitor them. At the very least the state of New Jersey should do whatever it can to assure that these facilities are providing the necessary service in a safe and secure manner.
I am also the prime sponsor of Assembly Bill 3566 which will require physicians to obtain informed consent from parents or guardians of minors for pyscotropic drugs. This legislation came about as a result of a meeting I had with an exceptional mother, Lisa Van Syckel. Lisa’s 15 year old daughter, Michelle slashed and mutilated herself and ultimately attempted suicide after being prescribed Paxil, which is an antidepressant. Medical authorities warn that Paxil should not be taken by those under the age of 18. The doctor who prescribed the drug never told the Van Syckels of these dangerous side effects which is called a “Black Box Warning” because it is outlined in a black box by the Food and Drug Administration. It is not difficult to determine if a black box warning is present for a particular prescription. It is included in the dosage literature. My proposed law is not overly burdensome on the doctor. It simply requires him or her to take a look before prescribing pyscotropic drugs and inform the parent or guardian of its side effects. The physician should note the informed consent in the patients file. No one should suffer the tragedy the Van Syckel family suffered. Thankfully Michele is now doing very well.
NEWS FROM TRENTON
December 1, 2006
As you probably know, I was born and raised in South Plainfield. My parentís home was on Hamilton Boulevard. I appreciate what a great town we live in and I am aware of the things we need to work on. The biggest problem all of our residents have to face every day is traffic congestion. In particular the corridor of Hamilton Boulevard to Durham Avenue is the most heavily traveled road in the borough. I have worked and will continue to work in Trenton to see that the state gives us the support we need to address this problem. During my five years as your Assemblyman, working with my friends Assemblyman Barnes and Senator Buono, South Plainfield has received just over $3 million in state aid of which $2 million has been in the form of grants for various road projects. Almost a half million dollars in aid was received for the improvements which are underway that will widen Durham Avenue to four lanes from Hamilton Boulevard to Route 287 and a state grant was utilized to offset the cost of the beautiful decorative street lights on Hamilton Boulevard. I am happy that I was in a position to explain to DOT Commissioner Kris Kalluri how important it was to keep truck traffic off Hamilton Boulevard and I am particularly pleased that the Department approved my recommendation to install an additional right hand turning lane on the ramp off Route 287 onto Durham Avenue. In fact construction of this additional lane is underway and the commissioner assures me it will be completed before winter. With this additional turning lane, two lanes of traffic will now be able to turn right onto Durham Avenue, which will also be two lanes all the way up to St. Nicholas Avenue where trucks will be required to exit. Keep in mind that there will soon be an additional dedicated right hand turn lane at the Quick Chek on Durham Avenue. These improvements will make a tremendous improvement in traffic flow. I am very proud to have been able to be a part of the solution. However the best is yet to come. Just last week the DOT awarded South Plainfield the largest local grant of any town in our legislative district for the New Market Avenue extension. As you know, Mayor elect Charlie Butrico has developed a traffic plan to extend New Market Avenue through the industrial site so that truck traffic can go directly to Belmont Avenue into the industrial area. I am gratified that the DOT has so clearly demonstrated its support for the New Market Avenue extension by this award. I know that we will never be able to make the situation perfect when it comes to traffic in South Plainfield but I can assure you that as long as I am your Assemblyman I will work to see that we have the support of the Governor and the Department of Transportation to help wherever they can. If you have any suggestions about traffic or any other issue, please contact me. My office is located at 908 Oak Tree Ave, Unit P. My phone number is (908)757-1677 and my email is AsmDiegnan@njleg.org. TOP
NEWS FROM TRENTON
August 11, 2006
The most rewarding aspect of serving as a member of the New Jersey General Assembly is the ability to assist my hometown of South Plainfield. Over the last five years, my office has been able to resolve hundreds of problems for residents of our borough from passport issues to property tax rebates to dealing with the myriad of state agencies. I am proud of the millions of dollars in state aid that Assemblyman Barnes and Senator Buono and I have obtained for the Borough and our Board of Education. However nothing that I have experienced during my time in Trenton is as meaningful to me as the legislation that is known as "Abigailís Law." The best thing about South Plainfield is the people who live here. We are a small town in every sense of the word. We look out for each other and care about each other. No family better embodies that spirit than the Kuberiet family. Chris Kuberiet is recognized throughout the state as an outstanding member of the Middlesex County prosecutorís office. I have had the honor of knowing him for twenty years. Although I do not personally know her as well as Chris, I do know that Chrisís wife Lisa is a loving and caring mother to whom her children are the center of her life. Three years ago, the Kuberietís suffered an incomprehensible tragedy, when they lost their beautiful two year old daughter, Abigail, in a school bus accident. Abigail was so small that the driver could not see her standing in front of the bus. Due to her size, the mechanical arm, which extends from the busís bumper, did not prevent her from walking in front of the bus. Shortly after this tragedy I was backing up my car and the sensor in my carís bumper starting beeping when someone walked behind it. I immediately asked "why don't we use that technology in school buses?" As a result I sponsored legislation, which is officially known as "Abigailís Law". This is a very straightforward law which will require that all newly manufactured school buses must be equipped with sensors to determine objects in the front and the back of the bus. This is not pie in the sky technology. Most S.U.V.s already have these sensors. The cost should be minimal to require this technology in newly manufactured vehicles. Regardless of the cost, the need speaks for itself. Abigailís Law passed the Assembly on July 8th without one dissenting vote. My friend, Senator Buono is sponsoring companion legislation in the State Senate. With everyone working together it should be signed by Governor Corzine by the end of the year. I must thank Chris and Lisa Kuberiet for working with me on this law. I only hope that it can give them some small comfort. TOP
NEWS FROM TRENTON
August, 2005
As Vice Chair of the Judiciary Committee, I have the opportunity to propose legislation to enhance law enforcement in our state. In this session of the Assembly I have drafted two bills that I strongly believe will better protect the citizens of New Jersey. As you may know Senator Buono and I sponsored companion bills which require a Municipal Court Judge to review a driver's record before imposing sentence for drunk driving. This bill was prompted by the tragedy involving the death of a young man who was a student at St. Josephís High School in Metuchen. Prior to the accident a judge sentenced the driver of the automobile that caused the accident as a first time offender when in fact he was guilty on two prior occasions. If the drunk driver had been properly sentenced his drivers license would have been revoked at the time of the tragedy. Governor Codey signed that legislation into law in February. Never again will that mistake be made in any municipal court in New Jersey.
However there is still a loophole in the law. Motor vehicle records do not always contain convictions in other states. It is quite possible that an individual could have two DWI convictions in Alabama that will not be recorded in New Jersey. Assemblyman Barnes and I have sponsored Assembly Joint Resolution 128, which will create a National Drunk Driving Database Study Commission. This commission will be formed within 60 days of the Governor's signature and will report back to the Senate and General Assembly with specific recommendations to create a reliable national database for drunk driving convictions. Over a quarter of drunk driving offenses in New Jersey are committed by drivers with previous drunk driving convictions. This law will provide the judge with the proper information when a sentence is imposed and keep drunk drivers off the road.
A second bill that I have sponsored (A4094) admits evidence of prior sexual offenses in a trial involving a repeat offender. Sexual predators are four times as likely to commit the same type of crime. Under New Jersey's present rules of evidence a jury would not know that the defendant committed the same crime previously. The proposed legislation will give the trial judge discretion based on all of the evidence to inform the jury of the defendant's criminal history.The rights of the accused will be protected. However we must assure that victims rights are also enhanced. There is no more despicable crime than a sexual attack. As a society we must do all that we can to put these predators behind bars. A4094 will provide prosecutors with another tool to bring these individuals to justice.
As a member of the General Assembly I have a unique opportunity to help our citizens and you have my commitment that I will continue to do so. If you have any suggestions, please contact me at (908) 757-1677 or email me at AsmDiegnan@njleg.org. TOP
NEWS FROM TRENTON
February 24, 2005
I am pleased to report on the successful conclusion of two projects, which Assemblyman Barnes and I have been working on for several years. Last week the Department of Environmental Protection and the New Jersey Attorney General's Office obtained a court order mandating the cleanup of Borough Auto Wreckers on Hamilton Boulevard. The Order directed that the operation of the salvage yard be immediately discontinued to allow the Department of Environmental Protection to oversee the cleanup of the site. The owner was allowed 45 days to remove his equipment from the site after which the cleanup will begin. The process is expected to take 18 months. After the cleanup is completed, a lien will be placed on the property to recover the cost, which is estimated to be in excess of $1.5 Million. I cannot compliment D.E.P. Commissioner Brad Campbell enough for his dedication and persistence in addressing this environmental threat to the residents of South Plainfield. He not only listened to my concerns, he acted upon them. The owner of the facility entered into an agreement to clean up the site over 15 years ago. This order sends a clear message to polluters that no longer will the state of New Jersey tolerate delay when the health and safety of the public are put at risk.
The second project is the revitalization of the Edison Valley Playhouse on the corner of Oak Tree Road and Woodland Avenue. When I was first elected to the Assembly, Bill Sesselberg, who lives in South Plainfield, and is one of the guiding forces in the South Plainfield Summer Drama program, shared with me the dream of some day reopening the playhouse. We talked about how great it would be for all age groups in the area to be able to participate in plays and workshops all year round, not just in the summer. I committed to Bill at that time that I would work to obtain state grants to renovate the playhouse. The arts are an important cornerstone of society. Government should support projects such as the Edison Playhouse. The reopening of this theatre represents an opportunity to bring the arts to the approximately 200,000 residents who live within a ten-mile radius. Last fall, Assemblyman Barnes and I were able to obtain a $25,000 arts grant to help with the cost of needed renovations to the playhouse. It has been closed for years and major work needs to be done, starting with a new roof. Last month we successfully secured an additional $75,000 in funding which will finance a major portion of the renovations. If completed on schedule, performances will begin this fall.
Nothing is more fulfilling than to be able to see projects successfully completed only because South Plainfield has a voice in the legislature. Assemblyman Barnes, Senator Buono and I work as a team. I can't thank them enough for all of their help every time we need them.
If you have any suggestions as to future projects or improvements to South Plainfield or to our state, please contact me. My email address is Asmdiegnan@njleg.org. My office number is (908) 757-1677 and my office is located at 908 Oak Tree Ave, Unit P in South Plainfield. TOP
NEWS FROM TRENTON
November, 2004
This years Presidential election was a good test of our country's election process. As a result of the record setting turnout, we now have a reliable database upon which to make recommendations for reform. Overall the process performed well in almost all states but clearly there is room for improvement. I am sponsoring two bills in Trenton that I believe will help to improve the integrity of voting, while at the same time encouraging people to participate in the process. The first bill that I am in the process of drafting is a law to allow early voting in New Jersey. Under this proposal voters would be permitted to cast their votes beginning on the Monday of the week before Election Day. At least one polling place would be located in every municipal building for this purpose. Therefore anyone could vote during the seven days before Election Day, excluding Sunday. The law provides that additional polling places would be provided based on the population of each town. I suggest one polling place per 25,000 residents. This procedure was tried in Florida this year and it worked out well. My theory is that many times there are last minute emergencies that make it difficult or impossible to vote. For example, you find out that you need to go away on business or you must work overtime or one of the kids are sick. You can run out the day before election or a week before election and vote. Absentee ballots are not effective for last minute situations.
My second proposal provides that an individual can register to vote at any time right up to Election Day and then cast a vote. Under existing New Jersey law an individual must register 29 days before Election Day to be eligible to vote. The vast majority of people have no idea of the deadline and are totally confused as to how the process works. Anyone who is wants to vote should be allowed to vote. Under the proposed law an eligible voter could register at the polling place and then be allowed to cast a provisional ballot which is placed in a secure envelope and deposited in a secure box. After it is confirmed that the person registered properly their vote would be counted. We should encourage people to vote rather than make the process so complicated that very few understand it.
There are a number of other bills that have been proposed in Trenton sponsored by Majority Leader Joseph Roberts. They would require paper backup to the electronic voting machines and allowing absentee voting for any reason along with establishing a voterís bill of rights. I support all of these proposals.
I must compliment South Plainfieldís former Council President Jim Vokral who is now the Administrator for the Middlesex County Board of Elections. Jim supervised one of the most hectic election seasons in history. Every one in our county is proud of him. I speak with Jim regularly about his thoughts for improving the election process in our state and I will be introducing future legislation based on his input and the input of others involved in the election process in New Jersey. There is nothing more important to our democracy than protecting every citizen's right to vote.
If you have any thoughts about improving our voting process or any other item please contact me. My legislative office number is (980)757-1677 and my email address is AsmDiegnan@njleg.org. TOP
NEWS FROM TRENTON
Future Stars Pre School Program
March, 2004
The best thing about being a member of the legislature is actually being able to do something about an issue or a problem. The most recent example concerns the Future Stars pre-school program in South Plainfield. Last year the Superintendent of Schools was informed by the Department of Education that the program would have to be terminated because tuition based programs in public schools are not permitted. Several parents and members of our Board of Education led by board member Sue Peck, asked me to sponsor legislation to exempt programs like our Future Stars from the State prohibition. As you can imagine, it takes time to get a proposal passed into law. We needed to do something immediately to protect the preschool while the process was on going. Superintendent Rosado and I contacted the County Superintendent who has granted two successive one year waivers so that Future Stars can continue to function. My friend and fellow Assemblyman, Peter Barnes, has joined with me in sponsoring Assembly Bill 2170 which will permit programs such as South Plainfield's Future Stars to operate as they have in the past. We have reached out to our friend and fellow representative of the 18 th District, Senator Barbara Buono, who has agreed to sponsor the bill in the Senate. Next, there will be hearings before the Assembly and Senate Education Committees. Presuming it is supported in committee, the bill will then be voted on by the entire Assembly and State Senate. After that, it will be sent to the Governor, who will sign it into law. Fortunately, I am the Vice Chair of the Education Committee and I have been able to move the bill along. I have had meetings with Speaker Sires, Majority Leader Roberts and Committee Chairman Stanley, in order to stress how important the legislation is to our district and school districts throughout the state. In the present day economy, in most families both parents have to work just to pay the bills. Preschool is no longer an option. It is a necessity. I am happy to be in a position to do something about what could have been a disaster for the working mothers and fathers of South Plainfield.
If there is ever an issue or concern that you want to talk with me about, don't hesitate to contact me. My legislative office number is (908) 757-1677. The office is located right here in South Plainfield at 908 Oak Tree Road, across from the A&P Shopping Center. In addition, you can e-mail me at AsmDiegnan@njleg.org. TOP
NEWS FROM TRENTON
January, 2004
It seems like yesterday that my family and friends traveled by bus to help celebrate my taking the oath of office as an Assemblyman. In fact two years have passed and the 210 th session of the New Jersey General Assembly is now part of history. I really believe that it was a successful term. The Governor and Legislature were forced to deal with the excesses of the past during a time of economic downturn. We passed two balanced budgets and addressed a $12 billion deficit, without raising either the income tax or sales tax. At the same time local aid has been increased, including state aid to education. Working together with Assemblyman Peter Barnes and Senator Barbara Buono, South Plainfield received over $1million in additional state aid in 2002 and 2003. I was honored when Speaker Sires appointed me as a member of the Education Committee and as Vice Chairperson of the Judiciary Committee. As a former Instructor at Middlesex County College, I have a real interest in education. If there is one area that I want to make a difference in, its' improving all areas of educational opportunity in our state.
During the 210 th session I was primary sponsor of 69 bills and co-sponsor of another 160. 30 of those have been signed into law. Just last week the Governor signed Assembly Bill 3928, which I sponsored, into law. This law appropriates $64 million for acquisition of lands for recreation and conservation purposes throughout our great state. If you are ever interested in looking up any of my bills that are before the legislature you can find them by going to the web site, www.njleg.state.nj.us and putting in my name under "search by bill sponsor."
Last Tuesday, January 13 th , I again took the oath of office along with the 79 other members of the 211 th session of the legislature. Speaker Sires has asked that I continue to serve as Vice Chairperson of the Judiciary Committee and he also "promoted" me to Vice Chairperson of the Education Committee. My email address is AsmDiegnan@njleg.org. TOP
NEWS FROM TRENTON
Reflections of My First Term
August, 2003
It's hard to believe that I am finishing up my first two-year term in the New Jersey General Assembly. It literally seems like yesterday when my family and friends joined me for my swearing in at the War Memorial Building in Trenton.
All in all, I think that its' been a productive two years. I was honored to be made a member of the Education Committee and Commerce Committee and I was particularly humbled when I was named Vice Chair of the Judiciary Committee. I have been the primary sponsor on five bills which have been signed into law and I have been the co-sponsor on another twenty. Two of the bills I sponsored were a direct result of input from South Plainfield residents. Rudy Poczak of the V.F.W. first told me that non-profit organizations couldn't raise money through raffles or 50/50's to fix up their buildings. In January the Governor signed my bill to make that legal. Kenneth Zushma, who, in addition to being our Emergency Management Coordinator's son, is a new teacher, suggested that I sponsor a bill creating a teaching certification for Technology. After a lot of work, the bill unanimously passed the Assembly and will soon be voted on in the Senate.
I am particularly proud of what Assemblyman Peter Barnes, Senator Barbara Buono and I have been able to accomplish for the 18 th district. Every one of our towns will receive extraordinary municipal aid and we have been able to receive millions of dollars in grants for the seven municipalities in the 18 th . South Plainfield received $200,000 for our new Computer Assisted Dispatch System in our Police Department and just last week we received a check for $250,000 for the clean up of Veterans Park. I am confident that we will also receive almost $300,000 in extraordinary municipal aid when the awards are announced in September. A tax point in South Plainfield is about $140,000.00 Therefore we have saved almost six tax points through state aid grants during the last two years. I am pleased that South Plainfield is finally getting what it needs to stay fiscally sound. I know the people in Trenton are very impressed by South Plainfield's record of no tax increase in four of the last six years and cutting debt by almost 50%.
In addition, I am delighted with the tree and daffodil planting at the exit and entrance ramps to Route 287 on Durham Avenue. I lobbied hard to get that done. The state will also soon be relocating the traffic signals to make turning easier. It may seem like a little thing but it really improves the way that entire area looks and gives a nice impression to visitors of our borough.
I have enjoyed my first term in the New Jersey Assembly. If the people honor me with re-election, I will continue to keep South Plainfield's voice loud and clear in Trenton. If you have any ideas or suggestions for laws or policy decisions, contact me. My phone number is (908) 757-1677 or email me at AsmDiegnan@njleg.org. TOP
NEWS FROM TRENTON
Sleepless in Trenton
July, 2003
I woke up at about 7:00 a.m. on June 30 th , I didn't know that I was about to test how long I could function without sleep. Well, I can now tell that I can stay up for 38 hours straight because I didn't get to sleep until 8:00 p.m. on July 1st. I hope that record will never be broken. The reason for the "all nighter" was attending a marathon session of the state legislature to adopt this year's state budget.
No one from either political party disagrees that our state is in a fiscal mess. The Governor, the State Senate and Assembly were faced with filling a $5 billion deficit in the budget. Although overall spending in this budget is virtually the same as last year at $24 billion, tax revenues are way off due to the nationwide downturn in the economy. In addition, of course, we are now paying the piper for the excesses of the prior eight years of borrow and spend government in Trenton. I agree with Governor McGreevey that in a bad economic environment like our country is in, it is unwise to raise income taxes or sales taxes and we didn't do either. Some fees had to be raised and cuts made to make up the difference. In a perfect world, no one wants to raise taxes but if you are going to be responsible you have to make tough choices.
The final budget increased aid to higher education, restored funding for the arts and history, preserved the homestead rebate and NJ Saver programs, Senior Gold, PAAD and vital services to our most needy citizens. For the first time ever, the budget provides for additional extraordinary aid to offset municipal taxes. In fact, every town in the 18th district will receive additional property tax relief aid from the state because of the work put in on this budget. In South Plainfield, we are eligible for almost $300,000, which equates to two tax points. I have to give particular praise to our Senator, Barbara Buono, for her work on the Senate budget committee. In fact, Senator Buono, Assembly Peter Barnes and I talked virtually every day during the budget crisis. We are fortunate to have Barbara representing us in the State Senate.
This is my second state budget and although I literally lost sleep over it, I think the final product meets the needs of New Jersey families. Its good to be able to look out for our local residents and be sure their interests are protected by the State. I really believe this budget does that.
If you have any questions on the budget or anything else call me or e-mail me. My telephone number is (908) 757-1677. My e-mail address is AsmDiegnan@njleg.org. TOP
NEWS FROM TRENTON
April, 2003
This week Peter Barnes and I forwarded our petitions to the County Clerk's Office to seek another two-year term in the New Jersey General Assembly. I can't believe it's been two years since I was honored with the Democrat nomination for the 18th district. So much has happened in that 24-month period. Our world is a much different place than it was in April of 2001. In our worst nightmares, none of us could have ever imagined the inhumanity of September 11 th and its aftermath. In April of 2001, our greatest concern was whether the stock market would set a new record high. Now we worry about the safety of our nation and the future of our world.
I was brought up to always be optimistic about the future. We should look at each new day as another opportunity to make the world better than the day before. I have tried to bring that approach to my job as your voice in Trenton. Although they may be little things, we have been able to get things done for South Plainfield. Now that spring has arrived the new mini forest, which was planted by the Department of Transportation at the entrance to Route 287 on Durham Avenue is in full bloom. In addition, the natural buffer planted along both sides of the exit ramp is starting to take hold. In a few weeks the curb line at the Durham Avenue exit will be moved back and the traffic signal will be relocated. As you may have noticed, trucks regularly are involved in accidents at that point because of the poor turning radius. Mayor Gallagher has been complaining about that condition for years. I'm happy that I was able to pass along the Mayor's concern and get some action taken on it.
I am particularly proud that we were able to receive a $200,000.00 grant from the state to cover the cost of the new Computer Assisted Dispatch System for our police department. Assemblyman Barnes and I worked with Speaker Sires and Majority Leader Roberts to receive that funding which equals two full property tax points for South Plainfield taxpayers. We also have worked with the Governor's office to have additional aid sent to our schools.
As you know, these are tough economic times for New Jersey and for the entire country. This budget is going to be particularly difficult. I don't believe that increasing income taxes and sales taxes is the answer. We all have to tighten our belts with the understanding that this downturn won't last forever. You can count on the fact that I will work to bring the same fiscally conservative approach to state government that we have established in South Plainfield.
If you have any questions or comments about any issue which concerns you, please contact me. My phone number is (908) 757-1677 and my e-mail address is AsmDiegnan@njleg.org. TOP
NEWS FROM TRENTON
February, 2003
On February 4 th , I attended the second budget message given by Governor McGreevey. I am sure that all of you are aware of the terrible budget crisis, which our state faces. Unlike the federal government, which can pass a budget, which has a deficit, under the New Jersey Constitution, our budget must be balanced. Last year the Governor and the legislature were forced to meet a $9 Billion deficit left over from the prior administration. We were able to do it without raising the income tax or the sales tax. This year things are even worse. Due to the faltering economy, tax receipts are $2Billion less this year than last year. In addition, due to the enormous borrowing, which took place over the prior ten years and increased pension and health care costs, and reduced federal aid to the states, the new budget must address a $5 Billion total short fall. As a result, the Governor introduced a budget, which drastically slashed numerous programs. However, the Governor's budget does not cut municipal aid or aid to the local boards of education. In fact there is a slight increase in state aid in our borough, South Plainfield.
Every day I receive phone calls, letters and emails asking about the budget from constituents making a case for a particular program which is at risk. The budget as presented by the Governor is not the final document that will be adopted. This is just the first step in the process. For example, I do not support eliminating the New Jersey Saver program for those who earn more than $100,000.00 per year. I have met with the Speaker, the Majority Leader and the Chairman of the Budget Committee and I am confident that this program will be preserved although they may need to be cut back until the economy turns around. I do not support increasing the income tax or the sales tax to address the budget crisis. Some people say it is courageous to raise taxes. I disagree. I think raising taxes is the easy way out. Living within your means is the courageous thing to do. Our economy won't be in this bad shape forever. When things get better, revenues will increase and we will be able to fund new programs. For now we all have to work together and look at the big picture for the benefit of all of the residents of New Jersey.
If you have any advice or have any questions or concerns about the state budget or any other issue, don't hesitate to call me. My legislative office number is (908) 757-1677 or you can e-mail me at AsmDiegnan@njleg.org. TOP
NEWS FROM TRENTON
December, 2002
It's traditional at this time of the year to look back at what took place over the prior twelve months while at the same time looking forward to what goals and challenges lie ahead. I still am humbled by the thought that I have been given the honor to serve as your Assemblyman. Everyday I remind myself that I am in Trenton to look out for the best interests of the hard working people that I am elected to serve. I really think we were able to accomplish a lot this year based on the fiscal constraints, which faced state government. I don't need to reiterate the financial mess, which was left behind for us when we took office. New Jersey faced the biggest deficit in history, $6 Billion. In spite of that challenge, we managed to adopt a balanced budget without raising income taxes or sales taxes. At the same time, municipal aid and funding of the local boards of education were not cut.
I was proud to be the sponsor of several bills, which were unanimously adopted by the Assembly, including one to help out the V.F.W. and American Legion by assisting them in raising money to improve their buildings and another to require mortgage companies to disclose programs to keep people out of foreclosure. Several members of our own board of education recommended that I sponsor a bill awarding attorney fees to the board for illegally enrolled students. That bill is right now moving through the committee process. The thing I'm most proud of is the new landscaping at the intersection of Durham Avenue and Hamilton Boulevard, which was recently planted by the Department of Transportation.
As we look forward to 2003 I am still concerned about the economy of the state and the nation. I am sorry to say that I don't think we're out of the woods yet. Most people don't know that two thirds of the state budget goes back to the towns in municipal aid and aid for education. In other words, when people say 'cut the state budget', it could make matters even worse for property tax payers like you and me. I can assure you that my fellow Assemblyman Peter Barnes and I and our Senator Barbara Buono are committed to keeping taxes under control. We have to stay the course until the economy turns around.
In spite of these challenges, we are all blessed to live in a country where we can openly discuss our differences and at the end of the day work together as one people. In this season where we honor the symbol of peace and love for our fellow man, lets all pause to thank God for all that has been given to us. I wish you and your loved ones the best of holiday seasons and a new year filled with joy, good health and peace. TOP
NEWS FROM TRENTON
Route 287 Interchange Improved
October, 2002
I think most people will acknowledge that government usually doesn't move at the speed of sound. However, in fairness, I have had the pleasure to deal with some very competent and responsive people during my nine months in the Assembly. As you may recall, in one of my earlier columns, one of the first cabinet members I met with back in February was Transportation Commissioner James Fox. I told you at that time that I was really impressed with the Commissioner's energy and enthusiasm. We discussed traffic issues facing all of the towns in the 18 th district and I pointed out two things in South Plainfield that really bugged me: (1) the lack of signage with the name "South Plainfield" on them on the exits off Route 287 and (2) the mess that exists at the entrance and exit to Route 287 on Durham Avenue. The Commissioner promised that he would make these projects a priority and he has kept his word. You may already have seen the signs for South Plainfield at the Stelton Road exit going South on Route 287 and the Durham Avenue exit going North. A couple of weeks ago, my Chief of Staff, Addie Levine and I met with George Caruso who works for the landscaping division in the Department of Transportation at the Durham Avenue/Route 287 Interchange site. We went over the unsightly condition with him and he promised a landscaping plan would be developed. Within a matter of a few days, his supervisor, Pat Steele, forwarded a schedule to my legislative office. I am happy to say that within the next few weeks, both the ramp coming off Route 287 and the entrance onto Route 287 will be totally re-landscaped. The existing sickly vegetation will be removed along with the weeds growing beneath the underpass. The area will be totally replanted including 48 maple trees, 24 flowering cherry trees, 24 flowering pear trees, 60 spruce trees and 60 white pine trees. The thing I am most excited about is that yellow daffodil bulbs will be planted in some areas as a living memorial to the victims of September 11 th . This is a state project known as "Fields of Gold". It just goes to show that government agencies are a lot more responsive than we think. Keep your eye on the exit and entrance areas along Durham Avenue. It should be fun to watch the progress. If you have any suggestions or ideas about any area of interest, please contact my office at (908) 757-1677 or email me at AsmDiegnan@njleg.org. TOP
NEWS FROM TRENTON
We Have a Budget
July, 2002
Well, the wrangling is over. Last week the State Assembly and Senate passed the 2003 New Jersey State Budget. Unlike the federal government, our state constitution requires a balanced budget. As you probably know, Governor McGreevey had to deal with a $9 Billion Dollar deficit left over from last year's budget. Since the entire state budget is 24 Billion Dollars that deficit equaled more than 35 percent of what our state spends for an entire year. I am very happy to report that we were able to adopt a budget, which pays off that incredible deficit and does not raise income taxes, sales taxes or the gasoline tax. The hard working middle class families of New Jersey were our focus as we prepared this budget. Funding for the Senior Property Tax Freeze Program and the Homestead Rebate Program were increased by $22 Million dollars. This year the homestead rebate will be $775.00. In addition, the NJ Saver program, which refunds up to $500 to property owners to help offset school taxes, was protected.
As the legislature worked through the budget numbers, we tried to bring a balance between what an individual pays in taxes and what corporations pay. It is just not right that our largest corporations were paying only $200 per year in state corporate taxes. The corporate business tax, which was signed into law, closed tax loopholes so that large corporations now pay their fair share to the state treasury.
This is the first budget process that I was involved in and I am proud of the final product. I think that everyone worked hard to come up with a plan that addressed the state's fiscal crisis while at the same time preserving programs that protect our quality of life in New Jersey.
If you have any questions about the budget call me or e-mail me. My telephone number is (908) 757-1677. My e-mail address is AsmDiegnan@njleg.org. TOP
NEWS FROM TRENTON
May, 2002
Probably the nicest thing about being South Plainfield's first Assemblyman is the opportunity to ask that action be taken concerning things in our Borough that need attention from the State. A couple of weeks ago I met with Transportation Commissioner Jamie Fox at his West Trenton office. First of all, let me say that Commissioner Fox is one of the nicest people I have talked to during my short time in the legislature. I asked for the meeting because there were three items that fall under his authority that have gotten my goat for some time now. First, have you ever noticed that on Route 287 South there are no exit signs for South Plainfield? The Stelton Road exit by the former Howard Johnson Hotel says everything but South Plainfield. Well to make a long story short, the Commissioner promised me that a couple of signs indicating "South Plainfield" will be installed within the next few weeks. Second, I fume every time I come off 287 at the Durham Avenue ramp. A few years ago, the State improved the ramp to provide for two left hand turn lanes and one right. That was a good thing and it helps move traffic. However, as part of the project, they removed all of the landscaping, which blocked out the various unsightly industrial uses down below. I asked the Commissioner to please put the landscape buffer back. He had his staff look into it and the landscaping will be installed this fall. As you gardeners know, the fall is the best time to plant anything especially with the drought conditions that now exist. The most important thing I talked with him about was the Helen Street extension. This project is funded entirely by State and Federal funds and in my mind is as important to the quality of life in our Borough as any other project. The Commissioner assured me that the State is committed to seeing Helen Street completed. In fact Councilpeople Petronko and Butrico attended a meeting about Helen Street, in Newark with transportation department officials the day after I met with Commissioner Fox.
Every one should know that my job in Trenton is to represent all of the residents of the 18th District but of course, I have a special place in my heart for my hometown. If there is ever anything that you want me to look into, just contact my office, which is at 908 Oak Tree Avenue. My Chief of Staff is our former Council President Addie Levine. My phone number is (908) 757-1677 and my email address is Asmdiegnan@njleg.org. TOP