Senate President Richard Codey (D-Essex) and Assembly Speaker Joseph Roberts (D-Camden) have announced that they will unite in an attempt to pass meaningful reform legislation in 2008. We’ve heard similar rhetoric before from both sides of the political aisle in Trenton. It may be suggested that this is the final opportunity for the Democratic Party in New Jersey before voters look elsewhere. The newly-elected Republicans have established a united front for similar reform; therefore, if the Democrats in the Legislature sabotage this reform effort, the Republicans will either pass such reform during this legislative term or be stymied and, because of voter outrage, secure enough seats in 2009 to enable such reform to be enacted. The Democrats would be wise to enact the Codey/Roberts ethics-related reforms now, before it is too late.
Codey and Roberts have proposed creating “Pay to Play” reform that is “loophole free.” Currently, “Pay to Play” reforms that have been enacted are circumvented throughout New Jersey by special interests, contract seekers, and operatives in both political parties. All loopholes need to be closed to ensure that contracts are awarded based on merit and not payback for political contributions.
Continue reading ShapTalk.com: Codey and Roberts Reform Plan -- Last Chance Before Voters Look Elsewhere.Michael M. Shapiro, founder of ShapTalk.com, is an attorney who resides in New Providence, New Jersey. He currently serves as the Editor of The Alternative Press Contact Mike at mike@shaptalk.com