Trenton, New Jersey.The Democratic-led state budget process was criticized by Senate Republican Leader Anthony M. Bucco on Friday for being hurried and opaque.
Bucco attacked the ruling party in a statement released on June 27 for what he called a covert budget-negotiation strategy that compromises good governance and public accountability.
According to Bucco, the way Trenton Democrats are handling our state budget process is not only dishonorable, but it is also the exact reverse of what constitutes effective governance.
He also said that the budget process involved political favors and last-minute agreements that were pushed through in the middle of the night, and he held this approach responsible for New Jersey’s continuous financial problems.
The announcement comes as legislative leaders in Trenton continue their budget discussions in an effort to complete a state spending plan before the beginning of the upcoming fiscal year.
Budget discussions lead to partisan conflict
Bucco’s comments are indicative of larger Republican apprehensions regarding budgetary processes, which they contend have grown more ambiguous. The public has not yet been given access to the budget’s precise contents.
Bucco’s statement has not yet received a response from Democratic leaders, and there is no specific date set for a vote on the budget package.
Republicans have previously attacked the Democratic majority over fiscal transparency. In past years, as budget deadlines drew near, similar assertions were made.
To prevent a government shutdown, the Legislature is anticipated to vote on the state budget by the end of the month.
