TRENTON, N.J. — Assembly Budget Committee member Al Barlas has voiced significant criticism towards Governor Phil Murphy’s recent budget proposal, particularly highlighting a lack of focus on the state’s educational challenges and the school funding formula.
In response to Governor Murphy’s address to the Legislature, Barlas expressed disappointment over the omission of key educational issues such as learning loss and the technological disparities between school districts. This criticism comes despite the governor’s announcement of a $55.9 billion budget that purportedly boosts investment in education by $900 million and expands taxpayer-funded programs for public pre-K through 12 schools.
However, Barlas pointed out the incongruity in the governor’s plan, which simultaneously entails funding cuts to 140 school districts under the controversial S2 school funding formula. These cuts have been a point of contention, drawing criticism from parents, educators, and school officials who argue for the need for greater investment and reform in educational funding.
The assemblyman’s remarks underscore the ongoing debate over educational priorities and funding equity in New Jersey, highlighting the discord between the governor’s budgetary claims and the realities faced by many of the state’s school districts.