Governor Save NJ FamilyCare from Budget Axe

Written by Sy Larson Thursday, 02 July 2009 14:46

Opinion - Letters to the Editor

In a tough economic climate, it can be especially hard to balance the state budget. The fiscal responsibility is to meet the moral obligation of helping people access needed health care through public insurance programs. Keeping people in a program that provides quality, preventive care is a sound investment in New Jersey's future.

The Governor announced on Monday, June 29^th, that he would not enact the proposed $9 million cut to NJ FamilyCare. This cut would have closed enrollment for 17,000 low-income parents between 150%-200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).  This excellent news is a direct result of hard work performed by a coalition of advocacy organizations including AARP New Jersey and New Jersey Citizen Action.  Not only did the coalition stop the proposed cutback to FamilyCare, but the program has been improved with the elimination of premiums for all children below 200% of FPL.

There are many legislators who deserve our thanks. First of all, AARP thanks the Governor. We also thank Senator Joseph Vitale for his strong and outspoken support, and Senator Barbara Buono and Assemblyman Lou Greenwald who helped make this possible.

Sy Larson

AARP New Jersey State President
Princeton, NJ