NJ Governor and Top Democrat Clash Over Senior Tax Plan, Threatening Government Shutdown

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy opposes a new senior tax cut proposal by Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin, which may lead to a government shutdown a month before the deadline to sign a budget. Murphy views Coughlin’s “Stay NJ” plan as financially irresponsible, as it would cost $1.7 billion annually and lacks eligibility limits. Coughlin’s bill would provide homeowners older than 65 tax credits worth up to 50 percent of their annual bill, with a $10,000 limit. The budget is due June 30, and a shutdown would mean the closure of state parks, offices, and other services.