Asbury Park Press

Gov. Murphy showed his true colors when he told business leaders recently that New Jersey may not be their state if they are concerned about tax rates.

It’s outrageous that Murphy is telling families and employers they can “take it or leave it” if they have a problem with New Jersey’s high taxes. He should be working with the Legislature to enact the substantial reforms we’ve introduced that would save us billions of dollars at the state and local level — dramatically reducing our budget deficit and lowering property taxes at the same time.

He should be listening to everyone who is telling him they can’t pay more and the many analysts and independent ratings agencies sounding the alarm that New Jersey is headed for disaster if we don’t get our fiscal house in order. Suggesting our highest earning — and top-taxpaying — residents might be better off leaving is exactly the wrong message.

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That’s no way to treat the employers who are providing jobs and benefits for New Jersey families. It’s a dangerous message that may cost people their jobs.

Last year, twice as many people moved out of the state than moved in. In fact, we lost more people than any other state.

Given this reality, Murphy should be giving New Jersey families and businesses a reason to stay, not daring them to leave.

Sen. Declan O’Scanlon

R-Monmouth