TRENTON — In a state notorious for the worst business environment in the nation, job-creators can use all the help they can get. The Assembly Commerce and Economic Development Committee acknowledged the importance of business, passing a Republican resolution (SJR72/AJR139) establishing New Jersey Economic Development Day.
The measure, sponsored by Assemblymen Edward Thomson and Sean Kean, and Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce designates the second Monday of May for the annual pro-business observance.
“It’s time for Trenton to stop taxing business into submission,” said Thomson (R-Monmouth). “This resolution is a reminder that by investing in business owners, we can grow small companies and stimulate job creation. By linking government development programs with private-sector stimulus efforts, the state can craft new efficiencies within existing tax revenue.”
Kean said New Jersey can support business by better utilizing its many competitive advantages.
“The business environment in this state is brutal,” said Kean (R-Monmouth). “A variety of incentives, workforce development and economic programs are available to help employers, but we are calling on state and local governments to do more to evaluate these programs to maximize benefits and eliminate waste.”
“Economic Development Day will shine a spotlight on the state’s pro-business efforts,” said DeCroce (R-Morris). “We can increase our return on investment by combining and leveraging economic development funding. Coordinated efforts will provide jobs, increase revenue and improve New Jersey’s fiscal health.”
The resolution passed the Senate unanimously in September.
