Washington - Following the introduction of legislation by New Jersey Senate President Stephen Sweeney (D-Gloucester) and Senators Donald Norcross (D - Camden) and Joseph F. Vitale (D - Middlesex) to reorganize higher education in New Jersey, U.S. Senator Robert Menendez (D-NJ) today released the following statement:

"As our nation continues on the path to recovery, it is clear that a quality, public education system will be necessary to compete in a 21st century, global economy. Any legislation that has the potential to improve New Jersey's outstanding universities is worthy of thoughtful and vigorous debate. I believe the goals that need to be accomplished in this process are having a world-class research institution in southern New Jersey, while still preserving Rutgers' integrity as well as continuing health care delivery for the people who rely on University Hospital. I applaud Senate President Sweeney and Senators Norcross and Vitale for their willingness to engage in that vigorous debate."

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