Gov. Signs Bills in Atlantic City
A crowd of politicians, labor leaders and about 300 union members who sat in risers behind the stage greeted the governor with polite applause for about 30 seconds as he rose to speak.
"Please. I've only got 80 days left," said McGreevey, who spoke for about five minutes before signing the bills.
McGreevey announced on Aug. 12 that he is "a gay American" and that he had had an extramarital affair with a man. He said he planned to resign as governor on Nov. 15.
McGreevey got a standing ovation when he signed the two bills. Waving the papers in the air, he said: "It's now law. Thanks, guys."
One of the measures will funnel tax payments from casinos to construction projects throughout the state. It also sets aside $62 million specifically for Atlantic City projects.
The second bill will phase out by June 30, 2009, a tax that casinos must pay on free hotel rooms and other "comps" they give their best customers.
After signing the bills, McGreevey shook hands with those in the front row and was quickly escorted from the room by state police. Reporters called out to the governor, but McGreevey never acknowledged them as he walked quickly behind a blue curtain on the stage.
advertisement
Author: Copyright 2004 by NBC10.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Archives
Who’s Who in Health Care
Money Matters
Self-Made Man
On The Move
Drinking it All In
What’s the Big Idea?
Making Connections
Up to the Challenge
Today’s Pupils, Tomorrow’s Professionals
Best of Home & Garden 2024
A Night to Remember
Controlling the Future
Tourism: A Rising Trend
Dynamic Determination
State of the Unions
More...