The answer is action. DiFrancesco promised swift action to put school construction dollars in the hands of local districts so that necessary improvements can begin on school buildings across the state. At the same time that he applauded the state's record commitment to funding school construction, DiFrancesco pledged to get those dollars out of the bank and in the school districts. That is why I am making it a top priority to get that money invested quickly, efficiently, and in a way that ensures accountability and integrity. Along with speeding the disbursement of school construction funds, DiFrancesco called on the Commissioner of Education to develop a program to improve and enhance the ranks of New Jersey's teachers.
New Jersey is already the best place in which to live, work and raise a family.
DiFrancesco committed himself to keeping New Jersey's economic miracle alive by ensuring that our current workforce meets the needs of today's employers. The Acting Governor directed the Commissioner of Labor to develop a workplace basic skills program. With unemployment at or below 4 percent for the past year, the demand for skilled labor has remained high. DiFrancesco closed his address by noting his Legislative roots, his commitment to bipartisanship and to finding common ground on even the most intractable issues. The uniqueness of my position will enable me to stay close to the Legislature.