NJBIA and the State Chamber of New Jersey recently organized a virtual meeting of the Taxation and Economic Development Policy Committee to discuss updates on economic and budgetary policies in New Jersey.
The event featured key figures such as Assemblywoman Luanne Peterpaul (D-11), Assemblyman Alex Sauickie (R-12), Acting Director Marita Sciarrotta, and Deputy Director Michael Bryan from the New Jersey Division of Taxation.
Marita Sciarrotta provided an update on significant changes concerning zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs). As of October, these vehicles are now subject to sales tax after previously being exempted to encourage their purchase. She also highlighted STAR, a tax modernization project that will be implemented over several years, offering a web-based platform for interaction with the Division of Taxation.
Michael Bryan addressed recruitment challenges within the Division's audit branch, citing competition with private employers and declining enrollment in CPA programs nationwide. He mentioned some success in attracting staff by covering certification costs. Additional plans include developing case selection technology based on predictability models to manage staffing shortages and forming a task force to limit cases going to tax court.
Assemblywoman Peterpaul discussed several bills, including bill A-3521. This bill aims to establish occupational heat stress standards and an "Occupational Heat-Related Illness and Injury Prevention Program" at the state Department of Labor & Workforce Development. The NJBIA opposes this bill in its current form, but amendments are being worked on to make it more business-friendly.
Another bill discussed was A-2804, which mandates the Department of Human Services and the State Board of Medical Examiners to streamline processes for reviewing provider applications for New Jersey FamilyCare. This program is designed for individuals without employer-provided health insurance, aiming to ease approval processes for eligible providers seeking reimbursement through NJ FamilyCare.
Both Assembly members Sauickie and Peterpaul serve on the Assembly Commerce, Economic Development & Agriculture Committee. Sauickie emphasized his dedication to fostering partnerships between New Jersey businesses and the Legislature while focusing on labor, economy, and innovation in the state.
The meeting concluded with updates from NJBIA’s Chief Government Affairs Officer Chris Emigholz and New Jersey State Chamber Senior Vice President Mike Egenton regarding key administrative actions and legislation. They specifically mentioned progress on initiatives like the Angel Investor Tax Credit Program and New Jersey Works Act.
