As we reflect on the recently concluded legislative elections, it is evident that the voters have spoken, and their message is clear: The economy and affordability in New Jersey must be addressed.
Almost all New Jersey Chamber of Commerce member companies have one thing in common: The cost of providing their employees with health insurance is consistently one of their biggest budgetary challenges.
As the Legislature returns this fall, our New Jersey Chamber of Commerce lobbying team will be back in the State House pushing for policies that will make New Jersey a better place for our members to run their businesses – and for their employees to live and raise a family.
It is excellent news that CNBC, in its annual Top States for Doing Business List, ranked New Jersey as the most improved state, climbing 23 places to No. 19, after a 42nd place finish last year. This is certainly a reason to celebrate and the New Jersey Chamber of Commerce is pleased that the CNBC survey recognizes some important strengths in New Jersey’s economy.
When companies in New Jersey thrive, so do the state’s finances. When the business community thrives, state tax revenues rise, social programs are funded and the generous philanthropic giving of the business community grows.
May is small business month. Here at the New Jersey Chamber of Commerce, small business month is every month. May just gives us another excuse to say that small business employers are the backbone of New Jersey’s economy.
Prior to becoming president of the New Jersey Chamber of Commerce, I spent over 40 years working in the banking industry. So, naturally, many of you have reached out to me over the past couple of weeks voicing concerns about the state of their financial services institutions and the overall system. Some people are worried, especially small business owners.