Even Murphy, a Democrat, wanted more scrutiny of lawmakers' last-minute requests, and a Republican bill would increase transparency

Once again, important negotiations took place behind closed doors

Tax bills moved, but no state budget yet as deadline nears

NJ legislators have a history of last-minute rush to meet mandatory July 1 finish date for budget

Lawmakers will likely add hundreds of millions in new spending to Murphy’s proposed budget

Senate committee chair offers potential timeline for passing final spending plan

Echoes of last year, when $1 billion in new spending was added at the last minute