(Trenton) – Assemblyman John J. Burzichelli (D-Essex) issued the following statement in regards to today’s budget hearing with State Treasurer Sidamon-Eristoff and Office of Legislative Services:
“After numerous requests to appear before the committee, I thank Treasurer Sidamon-Eristoff for finding the time in his schedule to sit with us today. As this process unfolds, his participation will be critical. His answers and the proof he provides for his calculations and decisions will also be critical.
“Yet, the conversation with the Treasurer could have been more forthcoming on a few of the issues, including how he arrived at his revenue estimate for online gaming. I hope these figures prove true, but as someone who was involved in creating this law, I have serious doubts. I am concerned this will create a major hole in the budget.
“Our bottom line is to prepare and deliver a budget balanced fairly and with realistic numbers and projections. Hopefully, we will be able to move forward…spinning the issues less and providing more direct answers regarding the important issues facing our citizens.”