TLP: Pols With Names Ending in Vowels Try to Put a Hit on 'Jersey Shore' Tax Credit

A chorus of angry politicians and a national coalition of Italian-Americans called on Gov. Chris Christie Thursday to veto a controversial $420,000 film tax credit awarded to the hit MTV television show "Jersey Shore."

"The governor needs to step up for decency and veto this. If the show wants to go somewhere else, let ‘em," said state Sen. Joseph Vitale (D-Middlesex), who said it includes negative stereotypes of young Italian-Americans.

"Let us just hope against hope that New Jersey taxpayers don't end up paying for ‘Snooki's' bail the next time she is arrested. What a terrible, terrible and misguided waste." said State Sen. Paul Sarlo (D-Bergen).

Christie spokesman Michael Drewniak said although the governor dislikes both show and the incentive program, he cannot veto the credit issued Wednesday by the state Economic Development Authority. Although the rules say the authority's actions are subject to potential vetoes, Drewniak explained that the program is non-discretionary and the company met guidelines.

"Look, it's the law. If the Legislature has buyer's remorse, they are free to fix it," said Drewniak, adding that the "Jersey Shore" application was submitted under the Corzine administration.

The EDA approved the $420,000 film tax credit for for the 2009 production of the inaugural season of the hit television show. The approval was part of the first round of film tax credits awarded by the EDA since Gov. Chris Christie suspended the program in 2010 to close budget deficit.