New Law Boosts Veteran-Owned Businesses
Shore News Today
January 18, 2012
Legislation sponsored by state Senate Christopher J. Connors and Brian E. Rumpf and DiAnne C. Gove in the Assembly designed to provide assistance to veteran-owned businesses in the process of securing state contracts has been signed into law.
The 9th District delegation's initiative, titled the Veteran-Owned Business Assistance Act, states that the Department of Treasury shall encourage veteran-owned businesses to participate in state procurement and contracting.
Treasury will now monitor policies, practices, and programs in consultation with the Economic Development Authority and the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs to further the state's efforts in encouraging opportunities for veteran-owned businesses in state purchasing and procurement processes.
The three agencies will be required to identify strategies to expand the number of veteran-owned businesses interested in and eligible to benefit from state procurement activities.
Connors told The Current the bill that was approved differs from their original plan.
"We started out going for a 3 percent set aside - they do that in some other states," the senator said. "The administration expressed concern and recommended some changes."
He said that his, Rumpf's and Gove's, concern was to get some help for veteran-owned businesses, so they were happy to work with the administration.
"We took a broader approach," Connors said. "Let's find out who we want to help. And then let's make them aware of what they need to do to obtain state contracts."
He said they feel that the new legislation still accomplishes their goals without using earmarks.
"It makes sure that they are not only eligible," Connors said, "but they're better equipped to take advantage of the business opportunities that are out there."
His comments followed a statement from the three representatives shortly after the legislation was signed Thursday, January 12.
"With the enactment of this legislation, New Jersey will expand upon its ongoing efforts to provide veterans with more economic opportunities in the state," the statement reads. "Our efforts were undertaken to address the very serious issue in which many veterans, through no fault of their own, have found themselves at an economic disadvantage in this difficult job market."
The state, they said, will begin the process of establishing a long-term plan to expand the number of veteran-owned businesses actively participating in state purchasing and procurement processes.
"We believe that beyond just rewarding these individuals for their sacrifice and service to our nation, the state will benefit tremendously from the professionalism, determination and commitment to excellence these veterans will bring to meeting the obligations of any state contracted service," they said. "Especially in the midst of these trying economic times, it is the country's moral obligation to secure that our veterans are able to pursue economic opportunities and enjoy the quality-of-life that the rest of us enjoy on account of the sacrifices made by these brave individuals.
Source: http://www.shorenewstoday.com/snt/news/index.php/galloway-twp/galloway-twp-general-