TRENTON – Gov. Jon S. Corzine issued the following statement regarding Congressional approval of the financial industry rescue bill passed earlier Friday, Oct. 3:

“I'm pleased the Congress has passed the latest version of the bailout bill. Although it is ugly and unattractive, it is also absolutely necessary for the purpose of unclogging America’s and the world credit markets. I also call on Congress to provide direct help to people on Main Street, not just Wall Street. I believe Congress has an obligation to return after the election and provide funding to states for block grants for social services, Medicaid assistance, capital projects and an extension of unemployment insurance.
“Concerns about jobs, health care and state and local services are what people are dealing with on a daily basis -- not losing their houses, being able to heat their homes, put gas in the car and food on the table. The crisis demands help for states across the nation, like New Jersey, to help people deal with these very real struggles.

“The difficulties for states are demonstrated by California's challenges in maintaining day to day operations. Fortunately, through sound fiscal planning and cuts in spending and smaller government, New Jersey is in a strong position to move through this crisis.”