STATE – An increasing number of claims is rapidly draining the fund that bankrolls unemployment benefits in New Jersey, raising the unwelcome prospect that taxpayers will be required to provide a cash infusion.
According to the state Labor Department, businesses pay about $2 billion into the fund each year, but as of the end of November, it only had a balance of $750 million. Last month, New Jersey paid out $169 million in claims, a 23 percent increase compared with the $138 million paid out in November, 2007, according to records maintained by the federal government.
Should the fund’s balance continue to decline, businesses will face an automatic $400 million tax increase next June. A similar hike on businesses was averted this year when the state provided a $260 million emergency cash infusion.
South Amboy Celebrates Christmas—South Amboy held their annual Holiday Tree Lighting on Friday, Dec. 5, in the Transit Plaza. DJ Tony “G’” was playing the Christmas tunes and different children’s groups provided Christmas caroling. South Amboy Fire Department and South Amboy First Aid & Safety Squad were decked out with the holiday spirit. Enterprise Snorkel Truck 8 won for best decorated emergency vehicle. Pictured above, Ciara Kaiser, Brittnay Clayton and Caitlin Norek visit Santa at the South Amboy Holiday Tree Lighting. 
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