Assembly Speaker Vincent Prieto has tapped Assemblyman Gary Schaer to helm the Assembly Budget Committee for the 216th Legislature.

“Assemblyman Schaer has proven himself extremely adept on budgetary issues during his tenure in the Assembly,” said Prieto (D-Bergen/Hudson). “I have every confidence that he will lead this committee proudly as we continue to fight for budget priorities that protect New Jersey’s working and middle-class families.”

Schaer has been a member of the Assembly Budget Committee for eight years and has served as the committee’s Vice Chair for six years. Additionally, he has chaired the Assembly Financial Institutions and Insurance Committee for the past five years, a position he will now give up to assume the Budget Committee responsibilities.

“It’s an honor and a privilege to help lead the Assembly in this capacity,” said Schaer (D-Bergen/Passaic). “Assembly Democrats have always been at the forefront in protecting New Jersey’s working families. I intend to continue that fight while striving for fiscal integrity and prudence that protects all New Jerseyans.”

Schaer has been a member of the Assembly since 2006, representing the 36th legislative district, which covers parts of Bergen and Passaic counties. [TLS]