BWNJ advocates for a strong, sustainable economy for all Americans; an economy that grows the middle class; an economy that creates good jobs at home; an economy that provides opportunities for advancement; an economy that has a fair tax system.

Sustainable economic growth is not possible without increased government investment in education, research and infrastructure to rebuild our crumbling bridges, roads and rail services and keep our education system and entrepreneurial firms competitive. A healthy economy also requires effective regulation and oversight at the federal, state and local level to insure public safety and fair play. Finally, with the alarming rise in poverty, an adequate safety net for the most vulnerable must be maintained. These necessary investments and expenditures can be done within a long-term deficit reduction plan that is fiscally responsible, but will require a fairer tax system where the rich pay their share and corporate loopholes are closed. BWNJ will not support a budget plan that does not require a fairer tax system with increased revenues to help sustain necessary public programs. In particular, we will fight to save Medicare and social security against those who want to destroy them through privatization and drastic cuts in benefits to those most in need. Any changes should strengthen these public programs, not destroy them.

BWNJ’s Economy group supports the national efforts of the following organizations: The Economic Policy Institute, Center for Economic Progress, Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, Brookings Institute, and the Center for Economic and Policy Research. Please visit their websites to learn more.

Economic Policy Institute www.epi.org

Center for Economic Progress http://www.americanprogress.org/issues/2012/01/middle_class_sotu.html

Brookings http://www.brookings.edu/opinions/2012/0125_premium_support_aaron.aspx

Center on Budget and Policy Priorities www.cbpp.org

Center for Economic and Policy Research http://www.cepr.net/index.php/component/option,com_issues/Itemid,22/

To join this group or for more information contact Marcia Marley at marciam@bluewavenj.org