Last-Minute Budget Deal Again

Governor Sherrill’s promised fresh start for Trenton is running into the same old problems as the state’s budget process, with lawmakers still scrambling at the last minute to finalize a $61 billion spending plan — just days before the deadline. Despite early announcements of a deal, the legislative calendar shows budget hearings scheduled for Sunday, leaving little time for review. Compounding the frustration: lawmakers gave themselves a 67% pay raise this year while treating their most critical duty like an afterthought. Last-minute votes, rushed decisions, and lack of public transparency — as seen last year when $1.5 billion in unvetted spending was added — are making experts call the process dysfunctional. Without meaningful oversight or public input, state spending continues to be decided in the shadows, raising serious questions about accountability and efficiency. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/229632ccec889899