The New Jersey Business & Industry Association (NJBIA) has been recognized as one of the most active lobbying groups in the state, according to a report by the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission (NJ ELEC). The report highlighted NJBIA's significant efforts in 2024, placing it fourth among state advocacy groups with nearly $644,000 spent on lobbying.
The NJ ELEC report revealed that overall spending by New Jersey lobbyists increased by 4.1% from 2023, totaling over $103 million aimed at influencing legislation and executive actions in Trenton.
Michele Siekerka, President and CEO of NJBIA, expressed gratitude towards her Government Affairs team for their dedication to advocating for the business community. She credited Chief Officer Christopher Emigholz and his team for their efforts against a proposed $1 billion Corporate Business Tax targeting major job creators in New Jersey.
"Our Government Affairs staff works tirelessly for New Jersey’s business community every day," Siekerka stated. "We take great pride in what good policies we help get to the finish line and bad policies we can help to stop."
NJBIA's Government Affairs team includes Michele Siekerka, Christopher Emigholz, Deputy Chief Ray Cantor, Vice Presidents Althea D. Ford and Elissa Frank, Manager Marcy DePula, and Associate Jaimie Freeman.
In 2024, NJBIA was actively involved in key policy issues such as the adoption of the $56.6 billion state budget for 2024-2025 and opposing a new tax introduced by Governor Phil Murphy known as the Corporate Transit Fee. In response to this tax, NJBIA launched a 'Do Better for Business' campaign focusing on advocacy and awareness.
Other legislative matters where NJBIA played a role included opposing bills related to occupational heat stress standards and packaging product stewardship.
