Friday Facts and Figures is a brief digital newsletter focusing on data points from NJPP reports, research, and policy debates in New Jersey and beyond.
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1

Governor Murphy has called for the resignations of the Economic Development Authority’s board members. So far, only one member — board chair Laurence Downes — has stepped down. Just last week, NJPP and the Better Choices coalition called for the EDA board members to resign for their role in overseeing $11 billion in corporate subsidies with little economic growth to show for it. NJPP maintains that a new board and strict caps on annual subsidies are the best safeguards against future abuses, and the only way to regain the public’s trust. [NJ.com / Ted Sherman]

78,000

In a new report, NJPP Health Policy Director Ray Castro finds that 78,000 New Jersey children are uninsured — and a majority are kids of color. Fortunately, this number is low enough that all kids coverage is within reach, and Ray outlines the path to get there. By enhancing outreach, eliminating premiums in CHIP, and repealing NJ FamilyCare’s eligibility restrictions based on immigration status, New Jersey can secure a healthy and prosperous future for all Garden State children. [NJPP / Raymond Castro]

More Than Doubled

In 2004, New Jersey raised its top marginal income tax rate from 6.37 percent to 8.97 percent. Since then, the number of tax filers with incomes over $1 million has more than doubled. This data — from the state Division of Taxation — yet again debunks the often told myth of millionaire tax flight. According to Cornell sociologist Cristobal Young, “If New Jersey is concerned about migration out of the state, they really need to be looking at low-income individuals.” [NorthJersey.com / Nicholas Pugliese]

1,049,000

The Working Families Tax Relief Act, introduced last week by Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH), would boost the incomes of 46 million households nationwide, including 1,049,000 in New Jersey. Co-sponsored by Senators Menendez and Booker, this bill would expand the federal Earned Income Tax Credit and the Child Tax Credit, two of the most impactful policies at reducing poverty and helping low-paid workers make ends meet. [NJPP / Sheila Reynertson]

9 Percent

Four years ago, Connecticut expanded access to driver’s licenses to all residents, regardless of immigration status. Now, there is mounting evidence that the state’s roads are safer, as more drivers are trained, tested, and insured. Hit-and-runs are down 9 percent statewide, and by 15 percent across Connecticut’s ten biggest cities. According to Hartford police Lt. Paul Cicero, “Having these drive-only licenses can be very beneficial to both the police and the community.” [WBGH / Chris Burrell]

ICYMI

Want to work with us? Now’s your chance! NJPP is looking for a Research Director to develop and execute our policy agenda as we shape debates in Trenton and beyond. If you can research and analyze policy, have strong writing and communication skills, and believe math is real, please consider applying! Click the link for the full job posting, including salary range. [NJPP / Job Opportunity]

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