AARP New Jersey Urges Budget That Protects Affordability for Older Residents

Organization points to property tax relief, renter support, and utility affordability as key priorities

TRENTON, NJ – AARP New Jersey State Director Chris Widelo issued the following statement in response to Governor Mikie Sherrill’s proposed Fiscal Year 2027 state budget:

“New Jersey remains one of the most expensive states to retire, and many older residents are struggling with rising property taxes, utility bills, and everyday costs. AARP appreciates Governor Sherrill’s continued focus on affordability and the programs that help people remain in the homes and communities they have built.

“For many New Jerseyans, property tax relief programs like Stay NJ, ANCHOR, and Senior Freeze are essential. They are the difference between staying in their homes or being forced to move.

“The Stay NJ program was created to address New Jersey’s affordability crisis and deliver on a commitment to older residents who want to age in place. As policymakers consider adjustments, it is critical that the program does not reduce the annual benefit and continues to provide meaningful relief while keeping the promise made to the people counting on it.

“We also appreciate the proposal to continue the ANCHOR renter payment and recognize the importance of efforts to help families manage rising utility costs.

“As the Legislature reviews the Governor’s proposal, AARP will be closely examining the details to ensure that essential supports like Medicaid and SNAP remain strong for older adults and their families. We also believe it is critical that New Jersey continue making its full actuarially required pension payment. Maintaining that commitment protects the retirement security of hundreds of thousands of public workers and retirees and strengthens the state’s long-term fiscal stability.

“AARP looks forward to working with the administration and Legislature to ensure the final budget helps older New Jerseyans remain financially secure and able to age with dignity in the communities they call home.”

###

About AARP

AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/about-aarp/, www.aarp.org/español or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.