Christie: Actions will allow for 'New Jersey-focused programming to continue uninterrupted' as a transition is completed
Clik here to view.
News Anchor Jim Hooker preps for the evening news broadcast at the New Jersey Network Studios in Trenton, NJ on 4/22/10.TRENTON — Gov. Chris Christie signed legislation today that paves the way for the transition of the state-run New Jersey Network into a private independent entity. The governor suspended the planned layoffs of 130 NJN staffers, saying the actions will allow for "New Jersey-focused programming to continue uninterrupted" as a transition is completed.
Christie also appointed three members to a newly reconstituted New Jersey Public Broadcasting Authority, as called for in the law.
The governor’s actions are the latest steps in the 10-month process of spinning off the 41-year-old state-operated public broadcasting network. Last March, Christie called for the state to get out of the television business. By signing the law, Christie starts the process of identifying a successor and negotiating a deal that will continue state-focused programming without taxpayer subsidy.
New Jersey spent about $11 million to operate the network last year. This year, Christie cut that subsidy dramatically, and called for all taxpayer funds to end by Dec. 31. Last month, state officials started the process required to lay off the 130 state workers employed at NJN.
The suspension of layoffs was welcomed by the network.
"It’s very good news. We’re happy that there is a goal for an independent entity that will continue to serve a New Jersey centric broadcasting mission," said acting executive director Janice Selinger, quoting the administration’s news release. "We are continuing to work hard and we are looking forward to producing content into the new year."
The law Christie signed represents a compromise between the governor and the Legislature, which passed the bill on Monday. It gives the state treasurer authority to broker a deal — a key point for the administration — but it gives the Legislature final approval of any agreement.
The Department of Treasury will compile an inventory of the network’s assets and liabilities and identify the methods of transferring those assets to a new entity. It will also receive and approve any proposals to operate the network.
At a meeting of the old NJPBA last week, the commissioners outlined a six-month budget that called for the NJN Foundation to contribute $1.5 million and the state to add another $2.5 million. That money, in addition to the in-kind services provided by the state — including facilities and salaries for the staff — would allow NJN to continue to operate through next June.
Appointed to the Public Broadcasting Authority were State Treasurer Andrew Sidamon-Eristoff, Anthony Della Pelle of Morristown and John Inglesino of Rockaway. They will be joined by two others — one appointed by Sen. Steven Sweeney (D-Gloucester) and one by Assembly Speaker Sheila Oliver (D-Essex).
Inglesino was sworn in last week as the newest member of the old NJPBA board. That body was dissolved when Christie signed the New Jersey Public Broadcasting System Transfer Act.
Previous coverage:
• NJN could get funding to stay on air as lawmakers weigh network's fate
• N.J. broadcasting agency approves long-term lease agreements despite uncertain future of NJN
• Gov. Christie to keep NJN on air to give potential suitors a chance to work out deal
• N.J. groups campaign in support of New Jersey Network
• Experts consider options to strengthen N.J. public media programs, in wake of NJN troubles
• N.J. officials consider N.Y., Philadelphia public broadcasting services to take over NJN