On June 8, the Chamber of Commerce Southern New Jersey (CCSNJ) was actively engaged in several key policy discussions in Trenton, advocating on behalf of the South Jersey business community before legislative committees and participating in a joint hearing on the future of artificial intelligence in the workplace.

In the Assembly Community Development and Women's Affairs Committee, the CCSNJ supported three measures designed to expand opportunities for minority-owned and women-owned businesses seeking to compete for state contracts. The bills would strengthen outreach, training, and procurement efforts administered through the Department of the Treasury and encourage greater participation of diverse businesses in state contracting. Specifically, the CCSNJ supported:

A1978, which would require the Chief Diversity Officer to develop programs to increase utilization of minority- and women-owned businesses;

A2613, which would expand outreach and educational efforts for these businesses;

A3496, which would require state agencies to make a good faith effort to increase the awarding of certain contracts to minority- and women-owned businesses.

The CCSNJ is proud to support initiatives that promote economic opportunity, strengthen New Jersey's supplier diversity efforts, and help small businesses access government contracting opportunities.

In the Senate Environment and Energy Committee, the CCSNJ testified in opposition to S2338, the "Polluters Pay to Make New Jersey More Affordable Act" expressing concerns about the significant costs and legal uncertainties the legislation could create for New Jersey businesses and consumers. The bill would establish a program to impose liability on certain fossil fuel companies for damages associated with climate change and authorize the Department of Environmental Protection to collect and distribute compensatory payments. The CCSNJ cautioned that the legislation could result in higher energy costs, increased litigation, and unintended economic consequences at a time when affordability and competitiveness remain major concerns for employers throughout the state.

At the same hearing, the CCSNJ supported of S4296, the "Power NJ Act," which would establish an advanced nuclear energy procurement program within the Board of Public Utilities. The legislation represents an important step toward ensuring long-term energy reliability while supporting economic growth and advancing the state's clean energy objectives.

The CCSNJ also participated in the Joint Hearing of the Senate Labor Committee and Senate Higher Education Committee examining the impact of artificial intelligence on New Jersey's economy and workforce. In her testimony, Ms. Chebra emphasized that many employers are still in the early stages of exploring AI and assessing how the technology can be integrated into workplace operations. While businesses recognize AI's potential to improve efficiency, productivity, and innovation, many are taking a measured approach as they evaluate practical applications, workforce training needs, and potential regulatory implications. The CCSNJ encouraged policymakers to support innovation and workforce development initiatives that allow New Jersey employers and employees to fully realize the benefits of emerging technologies while maintaining the state's economic competitiveness.

Please reach out to Hilary Chebra, Director, Government Affairs at hchebra@chambersnj.com if you have any questions.