TRENTON, N.J. – New Jersey Assemblywoman Aura Dunn has expressed skepticism about the state’s commitment to budget transparency. Her comments follow Governor Phil Murphy’s recent remarks on the state’s budget process, which has been criticized for its lack of public scrutiny.
Dunn, a Republican representing Morris County, voiced concerns about the political motivations behind the current process. “There is a political advantage to passing a spending bill without anyone being able to get a complete look at it before it is passed and signed into law,” she stated. Dunn believes the Democratic majority’s commitment to transparency is insincere, pointing out that her proposals for enhancing budget transparency have not been adopted.
The assemblywoman has introduced several bills aimed at increasing budget transparency. These include requiring legislative changes to the governor’s budget to be made public by June 1, the establishment of a state treasurer-operated transparency site, and the creation of an independent New Jersey Revenue Advisory Board to provide unbiased revenue estimates.
Dunn emphasized the importance of a transparent budget process in restoring public trust in government. “Creating a trusted budget process will not only successfully separate necessary spending from waste, but restore faith in our government and leaders,” she said.
Governor Murphy, during a public budget signing in June, defended New Jersey’s budget process. He referenced his experience as chairman of the National Governors Association and compared New Jersey’s approach favorably to that of other states. However, reporters questioned the increasing opacity of the budget process under his administration. Dunn’s remarks highlight ongoing concerns about fiscal responsibility and government transparency in New Jersey.