Lance: Paid Family Leave Will Further Impede Economic Growth In New Jersey

Senate Republican Budget Officer Leonard Lance expressed disappointment today over the signing of the Paid Family Leave Act:

"New Jersey's economy has reached the tipping point. Our economy is in such sad shape on so many fronts that our prosperity is endangered.

"The Paid Family Leave Act will undoubtedly create more drag on an already struggling economy. This may be the final straw for some businesses that are struggling to survive in a state that consistently ranks at the bottom in responsiveness to businesses needs.

"The Democrats have imposed 101 new or expanded taxes since 2002. Our state's business, income and sales taxes are now among the nations highest – making New Jersey the country's third most heavily taxed state. Combined with onerous regulations, New Jersey is certainly a hostile place for businesses to grow and prosper.

"There will be dire consequences for all New Jersey residents unless dramatic steps are taken to make the state more hospitable to employers. In my capacity as the Senate Republican Budget Officer, I will continue to heed my self-imposed obligation to make state government less of an adversary to business people – who take financial risks and contribute to making New Jersey a better place to live."