(TRENTON) — Assembly Speaker Craig J. Coughlin (D-Middlesex) offered the following statement regarding the Governor’s annual State of the State address:

“I am proud of the progress we’ve made to keep New Jersey an affordable place to live while meeting our obligations and making prudent investments for the future. From our continued efforts to provide property tax relief and fund programs to help New Jersey families, we have made real strides in improving the quality of life for everyone in New Jersey.

“As the Governor acknowledged, we face challenges ahead, but thanks to sound fiscal management we have been able to improve our credit rating, pay down our debt, and fully fund our schools and the state pension system – achievements that reflect our commitment to responsible governance. We’ve also managed to cut taxes and avoid taking on new debt. I applaud the Governor for these actions, and support his efforts to address tax fairness.

“While belt-tightening may be necessary, we cannot abandon our commitment to making New Jersey more affordable for the 9.3 million people that call it home. That is why property tax relief remains our highest priority. We will continue to fund the ANCHOR program and are moving forward with the launch of StayNJ – ensuring property tax relief for seniors while building on the affordability initiatives we have already championed.

“We also made New Jersey a safer place to live. I stand with the Governor in extending gratitude to the law enforcement agencies and social justice organizations who, through coordinated efforts, led New Jersey to a record low number of shootings and car thefts this past year. Our shared vision for a safer, more affordable New Jersey is becoming a reality and together through our partnership with the Senate and the Governor, we will continue to build on the momentum we have created.”