In an effort to ease the burden Newark property taxpayers have of owing millions of dollars in taxes, New Jersey state officials will still encourage payments while the city waives penalty charges.

Newark Mayor Cory Booker is behind the taxpayer amnesty. ?It's a tremendous opportunity for hardworking Newarkers to catch up on their taxes during these bad economic times and not have to pay for a penalty.?

The amnesty program begins Monday and runs through Oct. 30. The offer also extends to people who are behind on their special taxes, water and sewer bills.