TRENTON, N.J. – From switching operations, to making personal protective equipment, to adjusting to disruptions in their supply chains, New Jersey’s manufacturing industry has adapted to meet new demands during the coronavirus pandemic.
On Thursday, the Assembly Labor Committee approved Assemblyman Christopher DePhillips’ legislation (A3756) that would dedicate $1.5 million annually to the New Jersey Manufacturing Extension Program, Inc. The funds would be moved from the Workforce Development Partnership Fund to the NJEMP to support job growth in the manufacturing industry.
“The manufacturing industry in New Jersey is strong. They have ensured jobs remained in the state while responding to the coronavirus pandemic by retooling operations,” said DePhillips, a member of the Legislative Manufacturing Caucus.
In June, the New Jersey Legislative Manufacturing Caucus held a roundtable with manufacturers and experts to hear how the coronavirus was affecting the industry. Lawmakers also learned about ways they could support the growth and success of manufacturers.
“These are already dedicated funds that are being reallocated to better support jobs in a growing sector,” explained DePhillips (R-Bergen). “NJEMP will train the unemployed and underemployed for careers in manufacturing—a nimble industry despite the challenges during this pandemic. The manufacturing industry will be a major player in rebuilding New Jersey’s economy.”
NJMEP is a private, non-profit organization that seeks to improve the profitability and competitiveness of manufacturers in the state.
The Senate Labor Committee approved the bill (S1957) in August.