No Progress On Addressing NJ's Depleted Fund For Road Repair
TRENTON, N.J. (CBS) -- Atlantic City isn't the only entity in New Jersey that's quickly running out of money.
Debate continues in Trenton over how to replenish the almost depleted Transportation Trust Fund.
Governor Chris Christie was asked about the TTF this week, as he pushed the Assembly to pass his plan to take over Atlantic City's day to day operation, which has already passed the senate.
A reporter asked about rumors of a possible quarter a gallon gas tax hike.
"The Democrats in the legislature have only talked about a raise in the gas tax," Christie said. "If they want an increase in the gas tax, constitutionally, that's required to begin in the Assembly. That's where all revenue bills and spending bills must start."
He continued that if Democrats want a gas tax hike, they should propose it in the Assembly, and have Speaker Vincent Prieto gather 41 votes in favor of it.
Prieto, who is blocking a vote on the Atlantic City takeover bill, sent out a terse statement in response to the gas tax hike idea through a spokesman's e-mail.
Quoting now, "The Speaker has no plan to post such a bill. I can't make it any more simpler than that."
Christie reiterated his stance that all options for the Transportation Trust Fund are in play at this point, but wouldn't commit beyond that.
Atlantic City is expected to run out of money at close of business Friday and has threatened to shut down non-essential services. Christie has vowed not to send any additional aid to Atlantic City without the takeover plan in place.