Jersey City, New Jersey, is seeking $150 million in state aid as it struggles to recover from a $255 million budget deficit. If approved by the state Department of Community Affairs, this would be the largest transitional aid grant since Camden received $69 million in 2010 during the first year of former Gov. Chris Christie's administration. The request comes as New Jersey lawmakers are beginning to debate the state budget. Mayor James Solomon has blamed former Mayor Steve Fulop's administration for creating the deficit, blaming it on gimmicks and irresponsible decision-making. The transitional aid program provides state assistance to municipalities in severe fiscal distress. Without the aid, the city would be forced to consider significant service cuts and tax increases.