By TRISH GRABER - February 27, 2012

Measure Would Authorize State Contribution to Defray Funeral Costs

TRENTON – Legislation sponsored by Senators Donald Norcross (D-Camden/Gloucester) and Fred Madden (D-Gloucester/Camden) to aid the families of fallen police officers, firefighters, emergency medical responders and correctional officers by providing assistance to help cover funeral costs was approved today by the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee.

“New Jersey’s officers and first responders have made it their life’s work to protect the residents of the state,” said Senator Norcross. “When one of these individuals pays the ultimate price while in the line of duty, it is our obligation to show them the respect and honor they deserve. Making a contribution toward the cost of their funeral services is just one way that we can express our gratitude for their unwavering dedication to this state.”

BY TRISH GRABER - February 27, 2012

Measure Stems From Case In Audubon, Camden County

TRENTON – Legislation sponsored by Senator Donald Norcross (D-Camden/Gloucester) that would remove barriers to local shared services by ensuring that municipalities are able to streamline positions, including certain positions held by employees with tenure, in order to carry out a shared services agreement meant to lower costs was approved unanimously today by the Senate Community and Urban Affairs Committee.

(CAMDEN) – Senator Donald Norcross (D-Camden/Gloucester) is seeking to increase penalties for those who issue false police reports. The announcement comes after an area woman provided police with phony information in the case of a series of sexual assaults that have put the residents of Camden City on edge. More than two dozen city police officers and detectives, along with Prosecutor’s Office detectives, State Troopers, city and Sheriff’s Office K-9 units, a victim witness advocate and a sexual assault nurse were dispatched immediately. Law enforcement officials launched a five to six hour investigation which cost the public hundreds of thousands of dollars.

“This is a waste of precious police resources, manpower and dollars when we can least afford them,” said Senator Norcross.