New Jersey senators planning proposals on major issues

TRENTON, N.J. (AP) — The president of the New Jersey state Senate says he and his colleagues plan to introduce legislation with the goal of investing in several areas to spur the state's economy.

Democrat Stephen Sweeney announced the plans on Monday, saying the proposals would cover transportation improvements, early childhood education and college affordability.

He and senators he has appointed to lead studies of each area say there could be calls for tax hikes to pay for some items, including improving roads and other transportation facilities. But he said the state would also look at expanding public-private partnerships and reallocating existing revenue.

During the announcement, Sweeney criticized Republican Gov. Chris Christie for spending so much time out of state running for president.