MORRIS COUNTY — The New Jersey Manufacturing Extension Program has named Assemblyman Anthony M. Bucco to its honor roll for supporting manufacturing and vocations in science, technology, engineering and mathematics — known as the STEM fields.
A member of the bipartisan legislative manufacturing caucus, Bucco received the award today at the organization’s National Manufacturing Day event in Franklin Township, Somerset County. Bucco has sponsored several bills to help revitalize the industry, including giving tax credits to businesses that hire and retain employees and purchase steel and aluminum. He also sponsored legislation creating the Red Tape Review Commission to reduce burdensome regulations.
“Our economy was built on factories and foundries that produced textiles, iron, steel, pottery and glass that once made the state the economic engine of the northeast,” said Bucco (R-Morris). “Today, a new generation of manufacturers are continuing the legacy, but there is a lot more we can do to help the industry expand and create new opportunities for growth. I am honored to receive this award.”
Manufacturing is a $40 billion industry in New Jersey, with more than 10,000 companies employing an estimated 360,000 people.
NJMEP created the honor roll two years ago to acknowledge state and federal officials and educators who have supported the state’s manufacturers in various ways. It is a private, not–for-profit organization concerned with improving the profitability and competitiveness of New Jersey’s manufacturers by enhancing productivity and efficiencies, reducing costs, and improving employee performance.
