On Tuesday, Governor Christie outlined a strategy to rescue New Jersey from the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression. Like other states, we were not immune to the effects of the national recession; however, our problems have been exacerbated by years of profligate spending, irresponsible borrowing, and failure to implement reforms. The result has been an unfavorable business climate that has driven jobs and growth from New Jersey. 

The Governor’s budget creates a blueprint for changing Trenton. The days of deferring tough choices are over. I’m proud to stand side-by-side with the Governor as we implement the key reforms that will turn around the State’s once vibrant economy. Moreover, I’m honored that he entrusted me with the stewardship of two of the most important elements of his pro-growth agenda: The bipartisan Red Tape Review Group and the Partnership for Action.

The Red Tape Review Group is currently reviewing hundreds of pages of regulations frozen by the Governor in his first week in office. I have convened a series of public meetings across the state to hear concerns on key regulatory matters. The Group will offer common sense reforms in April to eliminate or rewrite onerous and outmoded regulations whose cost of compliance have far outweighed intended benefits.

This review is ongoing and continues outreach to the businesses community which began in November.  Prior to assuming office, our Economic Development Transition team held dozens of meetings with members of the private sector, from corporate executives to small business entrepreneurs. Their insight and input proved critical as we laid the groundwork for the Partnership for Action to reenergize the State’s forbidding business climate.

The Governor and I will be talking a lot more about these and other efforts in the weeks ahead. One thing should be clear: The comprehensive approach we’ve initiated is the right one for addressing New Jersey’s unprecedented economic challenges. We’ve begun the process of climbing out of an economic abyss that was years in the making. It won’t happen overnight – but make no mistake – it will happen.