AARP Eye Center
As the cost of living increases, older New Jerseyans demand full funding for Stay NJ and action on utility transparency and affordability
For photos, click here (AARP New Jersey)
Trenton, NJ (June 12, 2025) — Today, over 100 AARP New Jersey volunteers visited the Statehouse in Trenton to demand action on two of the most urgent issues facing older Garden State residents: surging utility rates and property tax bills.
The rallying cry—“We want to stay in New Jersey and keep the lights on”—reflects the top concerns among older voters across the state, as documented in a recent AARP New Jersey/Siena College poll showing that 95% of voters 50+ say property taxes are a key issue, and 93% are deeply concerned about utility affordability.
This year’s lobby day comes on the heels of steep utility rate increases across the Garden State. According to data from the Board of Public Utilities, PSE&G customers will see an estimated 17.24% increase in their electricity bills this month, while JCP&L customers will face a 20.2% hike, compounding the financial strain on fixed-income households.
Last week, Governor Phil Murphy, Senate President Nick Scutari, and Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin announced over $430 million in direct relief to lower the cost of energy bills. While acknowledging that this is a good first step to deliver much needed relief from impending rate increase, AARP advocates called on the state to take action to deliver more transparency and rein in the profits that utility companies are making off the back of New Jersey rate payers.
Older New Jerseyans are being squeezed on all sides—by rising property taxes, higher electric bills, and everyday costs,” said Chris Widelo, AARP New Jersey State Director. “We are grateful for the work that our state leaders are doing to advance meaningful affordability legislation, and look forward to continuing the fight to deliver meaningful relief from rising utility rates. Fully funding Stay NJ, passing stronger consumer protections for utilities, and supporting job and retirement security measures will help ensure people can age with dignity in the communities they love and helped build.
The Senate and Assembly had hearings today on several key affordability bills supported by AARP, including legislation to improve oversight of utility spending, require more transparency around electric company voting practices, and expand access to utility assistance programs. Advocates are urging the Legislature and the Governor to enact this legislation.
Dozens of the AARP volunteers who met directly with lawmakers shared personal stories of financial hardship that echo those of thousands across New Jersey.
I’ve seen utility rates go up over the years—but now, they’re rising with no rhyme or reason,” said Elizabeth Marquez. “It feels like we’re being held hostage. When rates jump by 20%, I have no choice but to cut something else in my budget. My income isn’t going up, but my electric bill is.
Robert Rashkes spoke on the need for property tax relief saying,
After a recent property revaluation in West Orange, my taxes are expected to go up by $3,000. On my fixed income, that kind of increase is devastating. Without Stay NJ, I can’t afford the upgrades I need to safely age in place.
In addition to meeting with legislators, AARP New Jersey volunteers delivered petitions to the Governor’s and Senate President’s offices, urging action on rising energy costs. The petitions, signed by residents across the state, call for stopping the June electric rate hike, preventing future increases, and ensuring affordable, reliable utility service—so no one has to choose between food, medicine, or keeping the lights on.
New Jersey’s 50+ voters turn out in massive numbers, and we’re paying attention,” added Widelo. “We’re asking lawmakers to prioritize the people who built this state—and who want to keep calling it home
###
About AARP New Jersey
AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. AARP New Jersey educates and advocates on behalf of those 50 and older on issues that are important to them, their families and to all Garden State residents. The organization works to strengthen New Jersey communities with a focus on health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/nj or follow @AARPNJ on social media.
About AARP New Jersey
Contact information and more from your state office. Learn what we are doing to champion social change and help you live your best life.