GOP Milk police show government is too big

//July 24, 2009

Capital BriefsA long-standing ban on allowing retailers to accept coupons for milk is the target of a bill proposed in the state Senate.

Sen. Joseph Pennacchio (R-Morris Plains) cited this ban as one example of over-regulation in New Jersey, arguing that 45 other states have abandoned their bans on milk coupons.

ÂAny government that is big enough to have its own Âmilk policeÂ to harass grocers who issue milk coupons is too big,Â he said.

Pennacchio said the coupon ban hasnÂt succeeded in stemming the loss of dairy farms in the

state, citing state statistics that the number of dairies in New Jersey has fallen by 50 percent in the past decade.

Senate Republicans plan to highlight a series of state government laws and regulations they consider outdated or burdensome, including Sen. Thomas H. Kean Jr.Âs criticism of a state ban on ÂladiesÂ nightsÂ at businesses.

The bill is pending before the Senate Commerce Committee.