Dems need to embrace idea of sales tax holidays

Gov. Jon S. Corzine and his Democratic colleagues in Trenton often say they are receptive to any idea that will help New Jersey with its struggling finances, and falsely accuse Republicans of offering no constructive proposal.

Since last fall, we have proposed halving the state's sales tax in specified periods to help our struggling retailers survive, preserve people's jobs, and revive consumer spending as sales continue to decrease across the state and nation.

The National Retail Federation estimates that three 10-day sales tax holidays would save the average family $175 this year.

But instead of embracing this idea, or even engaging in a debate on its merits, Trenton Democrats have ignored it. This week, NJBIZ invited both parties to discuss whether New Jersey should have one or more sales tax holidays in 2009. We explained our position; the Assembly Democrats declined to answer.

We don't think that reflects a genuine nonpartisan desire to help our state. Residents are unhappy with the recent proposals coming out of Trenton and demand new solutions from what the Democrats have offered. Blankly ignoring ideas just because they came from Republicans will not help the state's residents or businesses.
Assemblywoman Caroline
Casagrande
12th District
Monmouth and Mercer
counties
Assemblyman Vince Polistina
2nd District
Atlantic County