Sam Thompson

Annual debt report finds New Jersey's long-term debts and obligations, including pensions and health benefits, reached $248.6 billion as of mid-2021.

State lawmakers plan to approve the fiscal 2023 state budget on Wednesday, one day ahead of the constitutional deadline.

Cost-of-living adjustments were suspended in 2011 and won't return for many years, even with full contributions. But restoring them now costs $3.6 billion.

In the 2022-23 school year, the state takes its fifth step in its five-year transition back to its funding formula. More than 30% of districts are losing aid.

Legislative committees approve higher pay for poll workers, letting more voters 'cure' mail-in ballot problems and letting people living overseas vote.

The state already plans to pay rebates of up to $500 to families this summer. Republicans suggest some of the $10 billion surplus should be used similarly.

Many transactions can be done online, though some people lack access or find that challenging. Eventually, the tech shift could lead to job reductions.

Governor seeks $50 million in new budget for the Garden State Guarantee, providing two tuition-free years at four-year colleges for eligible students.

Bipartisan support for legislation to lower the age at which working adults without children become eligible for the state EITC from 25 to 21 in New Jersey.

The state plans to borrow $4.5 billion to balance its budget and boost its surplus to $2.5 billion. Spending is higher than Gov. Phil Murphy had pitched.