Outgoing state Sen. Loretta Weinberg is expected to resign her position in the state Legislature — as soon as today — so she will be able to accept a position on the board of Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey.
Weinberg (D-Teaneck), a long-serving and hugely influential legislator with nearly three decades in the Legislature, would be appointed by outgoing Senate President Steve Sweeney (D-West Deptford).
Weinberg was expected to be appointed by Sweeney at the end of her term next Tuesday. But, since Sweeney will lose his position in the Senate at the same time — thanks to his stunning defeat in November’s election — Weinberg would need to resign early to ensure Sweeney could appoint her to fill the seat.
The story was first reported by NJ Advance Media.
Because the appointment is coming from Sweeney, Weinberg would be able to sidestep an age restriction rule that applies to board members selected by Horizon. Those members can only serve until age 75 — a rule that led to longtime board member Aristides Georgantas leaving the board last year.
The age-limit rule does not apply to publicly appointed members.
Sweeney gave Weinberg a glowing recommendation for the position.
“Loretta Weinberg’s distinguished career of public service has been defined by a selfless commitment to the needs of others and a fierce determination to improve the quality of life for everyone — especially those experiencing hardship,” he said. “I have complete confidence in her ability to contribute to Horizon’s role and responsibilities as the largest health insurer in New Jersey with a mission that embraces charitable services for those in need.”
