ACNJ Leads Budget Advocacy Forum

On May 24, ACNJ hosted a Budget Advocacy Day in Trenton where dozens of advocates gathered to learn more about the proposed state spending plan and how to influence the Legislature’s decisions in the coming weeks.

ACNJ Budget Analyst Sheldon Presser presented an overview of the budget, which includes a spending increase for preschool but cuts to critical programs for low-income families and school meal programs.

Jennifer Keyes Maloney, assistant director of government affairs for the New Jersey Principal and Supervisor’s Association, discussed the roughly $1 billion decrease in state aid to school districts, noting that many districts are being forced to fire teachers, cut programs and reduce other staff.

Rev. Bruce Davidson, a leader of the Anti-Poverty Network, said the cuts in supports to low-income working families will have a devastating effect, pushing more people into poverty and rendering them unable to provide for their families.

Grassroots advocates from around the state spent the afternoon compiling their compelling stories to put into letters to Legislators who will make critical funding decisions in the coming weeks.

“We do have an opportunity to make a difference as the Legislature examines its options in the coming weeks,” said ACNJ Executive Director Cecilia Zalkind. “It’s critical that we speak up now on behalf of New Jersey’s children and families.”

Read ACNJ’s Budget Brief

View ACNJ’s Budget PowerPoint

Jennifer Keyes-Maloney Speech to ACNJ

May 24, 2010
Child Budget and Advocacy Day

Photo Gallery