TRENTON, N.J. – Today, the Assembly and Senate voted to advance a bill dedicating funding to one of the most resilient industries during the coronavirus pandemic.
The manufacturing industry has adapted to meet new demands by retooling operations, making personal protective equipment, and navigating disruptions in their supply chains.
“The manufacturing industry in New Jersey is strong. They have ensured jobs remained in the state while responding to business shutdowns caused by the public health crisis,” said Assemblyman Christopher DePhillips, a prime sponsor of the bill and a member of the Legislative Manufacturing Caucus. “Manufacturers will be critical to successfully rebuilding New Jersey’s economy.”
The legislation (A3756/S1957) 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.
“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. Residents will gain skills and security in careers that have been creatively evolving.”
The bill also unanimously cleared both the Senate and Assembly labor committees. It will now go to Gov. Phil Murphy.
NJMEP is a private, non-profit organization that seeks to improve the profitability and competitiveness of manufacturers in the state.