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A resolution that would create a task force to study the future of New Jersey Network and protect the investment by taxpayers in the operation was approved Thursday by the Assembly Budget Committee.

Gov. Chris Christie has proposed eliminating state funding for NJN, but four Assembly Democrats argue his plan leaves unanswered questions about the state's investment in the network and the value it may hold to New Jersey viewers surrounded by New York and Philadelphia television stations.

The resolution (ACR-138) would establish the Legislative Task Force on Public Broadcasting and consist of five senators and five Assembly members.

The task force would develop recommendations relating to the governor's proposal to transfer the assets, including operating licenses, and operations of the New Jersey Public Broadcasting Authority to an independent, not-for-profit organization.

The task force would be directed to issue a report to the governor and Legislative leaders by Oct. 15.

"NJN has is a valuable state asset that has long served this state respectably with educational and public affairs programming that cannot be found anywhere else," Assemblyman John Wisniewski (D-Middlesex) said. "We have think carefully about any plan for its future and ensure it protects taxpayers, workers and viewers."

"NJN, though its studios and equipment in Trenton and Newark, four television transmitters, six low-power television translators, seven radio transmitters, plus public-broadcast licenses, is worth an estimated $200 million or more," Assemblyman Paul D. Moriarty (D-Gloucester) said. "That's all taxpayer investment, yet some would have us just walk away from that without any clear plan. That's irresponsible."

"NJN has long provided a valuable service to New Jersey, and we need to protect not only what it offers to New Jersey viewers, but the major investment taxpayers have put into it," Wisniewski said. "This study is the fair and responsible thing to do for taxpayers, NJN's dedicated workers and the state as a whole."

"NJN is a valuable asset that cannot be handled with a slapdash plan," Assemblyman Patrick J. Diegnan (D-Middlesex). "Whatever its future holds, it must be done the right way."

— TOM HESTER SR., NEWJERSEYNEWSROOM.COM