Governor Phil Murphy recently held a roundtable discussion in Trenton, New Jersey, to address disparities in public contracting opportunities for Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises (MWBEs). The meeting was part of ongoing efforts to respond to findings from a statewide disparity study released earlier this year. This study, the first since 2005, examined procurement data from 2015 to 2020 and found significant disparities in contract awards to MWBEs.
Governor Murphy emphasized the importance of diversity in New Jersey and expressed his commitment to creating an equitable business environment. "One of New Jersey’s best attributes has always been its vast diversity," he stated. "Today’s meeting underscores our steadfast commitment to building a stronger, fairer, more equitable, and more inclusive New Jersey."
The roundtable included various legislators and stakeholders such as Assemblywoman Shavonda Sumter, Senator Nellie Pou, Assemblyman Sterley Stanley, and Assemblyman Benjie Wimberly. Also present were representatives from several chambers of commerce and government officials like Jo-Ann Povia from the Department of Treasury and Michelle Bodden from the Economic Development Authority.
Jayné Johnson, Director of the Governor's Office of Equity, praised Governor Murphy's leadership in commissioning the disparity study. "The study— as an assessment tool— equips us to tailor remedies specific to the study’s findings," she said.
State Treasurer Elizabeth Maher Muoio highlighted Treasury's role in advancing equity for New Jersey businesses. "The recent disparity study...shone a light on inequities faced by diverse businesses in the public contracting system," she noted.
NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan also commented on progress made under Governor Murphy's leadership. He acknowledged that while strides have been made towards transparency and equity in state contracting opportunities for diverse entrepreneurs, there is still work to be done.
Assembly Speaker Craig J. Coughlin remarked on the moral obligation to ensure economic opportunities for all residents. Similarly, Senator Nellie Pou stressed the need for minority- and women-owned businesses to succeed when doing business with the state.
Assemblywoman Shavonda E. Sumter referred to critical gaps identified by the disparity study that limit fair access for these businesses. She mentioned introducing a package of bills aimed at fostering inclusivity in New Jersey's economy.
Assemblyman Benjie E. Wimberly pointed out systemic barriers revealed by the study that require immediate action. He emphasized collaboration with stakeholders like chambers of commerce to create fair market competition.
Other participants including John Harmon from the African American Chamber of Commerce and Carlos Medina from the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce commended Governor Murphy's proactive approach towards addressing these issues.
Robin Tabakin from New Jersey State Women’s Chamber of Commerce appreciated legislative measures taken by Governor Murphy to prioritize diverse businesses in procurement goals.
Francisco Cortes from NJ Diverse Business Advisory Council urged continued focus on inclusive remedies following stark findings from the disparity study.
Gurpreet “Gary” Pasricha representing Punjabi Chamber of Commerce acknowledged Governor Murphy's leadership in addressing disparities faced by MWBEs.
Reverend Ronald Slaughter expressed support for initiatives aimed at achieving economic justice through equitable contracting practices across communities throughout New Jersey.
