HUDSON COUNTY – U.S. Sen. Robert Menendez (D-13) issued a statement on Friday disapproving Gov. Christopher Christie’s veto of legislation that would have created a statewide health care exchange and provided coverage options for consumers and small businesses.
“I’m disappointed in the governor’s decision to veto this legislation,” Menendez stated in a press release. “The clock is ticking, and the governor’s veto leaves unanswered how we can best achieve getting affordable health coverage for New Jersey families.
“For the uninsured, their predicament is not only unfortunate and unacceptable; it is also unsustainable as a cost to New Jersey taxpayers. New Jersey taxpayers are on the hook every time someone without coverage shows up in an emergency room, whether it’s for life-threatening treatment or routine medical care. The new health exchange will help families find affordable options.
“The one thing I do agree with the Governor on is that this should not be done hastily. New Jersey has an opportunity to get this right, with $8.7 million in federal funding for planning and preparation. That is exactly why we can’t afford any delays.”