newjerseynewsroom.com

State Senate President Richard Codey (D-Essex) and Senate Judiciary Committee chairman Sen. Paul A. Sarlo (D-Bergen) Wednesday announced that the committee will hold a hearing on the nomination of Essex County Prosecutor Paula Dow for state attorney general on Jan. 6.

They said holding the hearing before Gov.-elect Chris Christie takes office on Jan. 19 will enable the Senate to expedite Dow's nomination so that she can assume office as quickly as possible after the transition takes place.

"I've discussed this approach with the incoming Judiciary chairman and our intention is to hold a hearing to thoroughly vet Paula Dow's nomination before the current legislative session ends," Sarlo said. "With the vetting process completed, the Judiciary Committee can reconvene simply to vote after her nomination is formally submitted by Governor Christie. This will help expedite the process so that this important post is filled as quickly as possible."

"Given the weighty responsibilities held by the attorney general, this is a post that deserves our immediate attention," Codey said. "I appreciate Senator Sarlo's willingness to tackle this matter quickly so that we can ensure a seamless transition in order to protect the public's safety and guard their best interests."

— TOM HESTER SR., NEWJERSEYNEWSROOM.COM