Some of the state's poorest seniors could see a dramatic rise in one of their biggest expenses -- prescription drugs.
As many as 134,000 of New Jersey's seniors and disabled adults are about to get hit with spiking drug costs and deductibles -- just as they're facing the loss of many of their tax breaks.
"New Jersey is like the Titanic. We hit an iceberg, an economic iceberg," said Dave Johnston of AARP.
The state program is for those earning less than $25,000 a year. They'll now pay $310 a year to get drug benefits, as well as pay $8 more per prescription, for a total of $15 per name brand drugs. Generics drop by $1 to $5 per drug.
Advocates for the elderly say of particular concern to them are prescription drug cost, which for 40 percent of them will double, forcing many to make tough choices.
"What they're going to do is stop taking their prescription drugs or they're going to eat less," Johnston said.
Christie's proposed increases could take effect as early as Jan. 1. His office responded in part, saying: "By bringing the states pharmaceutical assistance programs in line with other states and national models to encourage the use of generic prescriptions, we can achieve lower costs and continue providing services."
Retirees like Sandy Sloat are already reeling from the loss of property tax rebates, but she also must worry about her elderly father's drug costs.
"We would have to jump in and help him," Sloat said.
But others said in tough times, everyone sacrifices.
"The state is in trouble and he's figured out a way to get out of it. We don't want to be like California and go bankrupt," said Hugh Lally of Ringwood, N.J.
"Everyone is going to have to shoulder some of the increase," added Ron Andriani of Franklin Lakes.
But many said it's an increase they simply can't find a way to pay.
If the budget is passed, co-pays will take effect on July 1, and then the $310 annual premium kicks in on Jan. 1.
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