Budget battle won't shut down NJ government through holiday weekend

(06/29/06) TRENTON ? The state budget deadline is just around the corner, but the apparent lack of activity at the statehouse may strike some residents as odd.
The somewhat quiet atmosphere in Trenton is actually deceptive, as much of the negotiations are likely going on behind closed doors. The Budget Committee also canceled their meetings due to massive flooding that has gripped parts of the state. Many lawmakers are used to agreeing on a budget passed the deadline, as demonstrated with previous budgets under former Governor McGreevey (D-NJ) and Governor Codey (D-NJ).
The major sticking point in the budget is Corzine?s plan to raise the state sales tax from 6 percent to 7 percent. Despite the budget crunch, Corzine has said government services will remain functioning through the Fourth of July holiday. As a sign of just how drawn out things could get, workers brought a bed into Corzine?s office.
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