For Immediate Release: April 29, 2021
On April 19, the Chamber of Commerce Southern New Jersey (CCSNJ) released the Preparing for the Next Normal: Recommendations for Supporting New Jersey’s Business Community and Reopening the Economy Report, which includes detailed recommendations to policymakers on how to support the New Jersey’s business community during the state’s continued reopening and economic recovery.

The CCSNJ assembled the “Next Normal” Working Group over several weeks starting in late February, comprised of approximately 100 members, many of which are high-level CCSNJ Officers and Directors, from various industries and business sizes. Their objective was to discuss what is needed from state government for businesses to prepare for the next normal, effectively reopen the economy, and guide businesses and residents through this process successfully.

Following the release, the report received bipartisan praise from lawmakers:

“I applaud the Chamber of Commerce Southern New Jersey for taking a lead and working with our small business community to learn and discover what is needed to reopen the economy of New Jersey.” said Senate President Steve Sweeney (D-3) “Their findings deserve merit and extended discussion as we consider how best to assist business owners around the state. Now is the time to consider new ideas and strategies that will revitalize and accelerate future business ventures.”

“I couldn’t agree more, these recommendations deserve consideration and further discussion as we continue our work in the Legislature to aid our Main Street business owners impacted by the pandemic.” said Assembly Majority Leader Lou Greenwald (D-6), “Thank you CCSNJ for assembling this working group and for these recommendations.”

“As we emerge from the pandemic we must ensure the continued health and safety of our residents while we make sure the NJ economy is resilient.” said Assembly Minority Leader Jon Bramnick (R-21) “The recommendations from Chamber of Commerce Southern New Jersey provide many good bi-partisan recommendations that should be explored.”

“Agree 100%. That’s why we’ve been pushing for the seemingly perpetual state of emergency/public health emergency and related executive orders to be limited in duration and subject to legislative review.” said Senator Steve Oroho (R-24) “We know they are outdated, excessive, and holding back New Jersey’s recovery.”

“Sharing this insightful report by the Chamber of Commerce Southern New Jersey on how we can assist our business community going forward.” said Senator Troy Singleton (D-7) “The CCSNJ is consistently proactive in their advocacy, and their comprehensive work here is invaluable as we enter the ‘next normal.’”

“This is a thoughtful report by the CCSNJ about getting people back to work safely and helping New Jersey recover from the economic impact of the pandemic.” said Senator Anthony Bucco (R-25) “It deserves serious consideration by the governor and all of my colleagues in the Legislature.”

“The Chamber of Commerce Southern New Jersey has long had a history of leading the way in supporting and lifting up businesses throughout New Jersey.” said Assemblywoman Carol Murphy (D-7) “Their report on how we, as policymakers, can better assist small businesses will be an excellent resource to help New Jersey recover from the dual crises of the COVID-19 pandemic and the following economic downturn.”

“The Preparing For The Next Normal” report from CCSNJ report hit the nail on the head as our South Jersey industries must reopen” said Senator Mike Testa (R-1) “The NJ Summer Season is at our door! Tourism & Amusement are our top employers and support thousands small businesses. To protect our NJ Job Creators, we need fair & predictable lead times, not unexpected and arbitrary timelines.”

“As a small business owner, I understand the challenges the small business community has faced over the past year.” said Assemblyman Vince Mazzeo (D-2) “The recommendations outlined in this report will help guide efforts to support local businesses through New Jersey’s pandemic recovery and build a brighter future.”

“Small businesses are the backbone of the economy. They create jobs, spur economic growth, and serve as valuable resources to their communities.” said Assemblyman John Armato (D-2) “We must seize every opportunity to assess and meet their needs during these challenging times and help them emerge stronger.”

“This report greatly aids in fostering a much needed conversation which will hopefully lead to more active initiatives to strengthen these backbones of our communities, such as lowering the corporate business tax, reducing overbearing regulations, and countless other deterrents to economic growth.” said Assemblyman Gerry Scharfenberger (R-13) “They need our help and we need to ensure them help is on the way.”

“Small and micro businesses, particularly those that are women and minority owned, are most in need of assistance to recover swiftly from the heavy impact the pandemic.” said Assemblyman William Moen (D-5) “I applaud the CCSNJ for their recommendation in the Preparing For The Next Normal report to provide micro businesses the resources they need by reopening the NJEDA’s Micro Business Loan Program as a grant program using federal assistance, as well as their encouragement for NJEDA to prepare for Phase 5 of the Small Business Emergency Assistance Grant program.”

“In order to properly recover from the economic effects of COVID-19, it is imperative that we listen and explore the proposals found in CCSNJ’s “Preparing for the Next Normal” report.” said Mount Laurel Mayor Stephen Steglik

“What a fantastic overview filled with rich recommendations for New Jersey’s future…Policy measures and legislation that work towards a sustainable system is paramount to our economic health in NJ.” said Evesham Deputy Mayor Heather Cooper

The CCSNJ stands ready to assist state government with all of the report’s recommendations for the betterment of the state’s business community.