Trenton –Manufacturing Caucus Co-Chairs Senator Linda Greenstein and Senator Michael Testa praised the committee passage of two bills which will further support the rapid growth of the state’s manufacturing industry.
“For over 200 years, the manufacturing industry has been one of the drivers of New Jersey’s innovation and economy. Manufacturing jobs have evolved into advanced careers that require high quality education and skill,” said Senator Greenstein (D-Middlesex/Mercer), Co-chair of the Manufacturing Caucus. “These jobs leverage New Jersey’s unique assets to create innovative products. We must do all we can to support and expand our state’s manufacturing industry.”
“I take immense pride in the impactful work of the Legislative Manufacturing Caucus and our legislators’ unwavering dedication to support the state’s manufacturing industry,” said Senator Testa (R-Atlantic/Cape May/Cumberland), Co-chair of the Manufacturing Caucus. “The Manufacturing in Higher Education Act will bolster our emerging workforce and equip manufacturers with skilled candidates. Meanwhile, Senate Bill 3038 will provide our craft breweries and craft distilleries with some reprieve from the harsh and constricting ABC ruling that stifled their businesses. I am proud to sponsor and support these bills and am hopeful that we will see them become law.”
The first bill, S-659, sponsored by Senator Steve Oroho and Senator Greenstein, would provide assistance to the manufacturing industry by establishing career pathways for students interested in manufacturing careers. The bill would also award grants to institutions of Higher Education for the purposes of creating new programs or promoting current programs in the manufacturing fields.
The bill passed a full Senate vote and advanced from the Assembly Science, Innovation, and Technology Committee and now heads to the Assembly Commerce and Economic Development Committee for a vote.
“The Manufacturing in Higher Education Act will help introduce a new generation of skilled workers to promising careers within our state’s growing manufacturing industry,” said Senator Oroho (R-Morris/Sussex/Warren). “We can bolster this vital sector of our economy to cultivate innovation and produce exceptional goods that will be enjoyed by New Jerseyans and others around the world. I’m glad the Legislature is working together to foster sustainable job growth that will drive New Jersey’s long-term economic success.”
The second bill, S-3038, sponsored by Senator Vin Gopal and Senator Greenstein, would allow craft alcoholic beverage manufacturers to hold certain events and coordinate with food vendors. The bill would apply to those with limited brewery licenses, cidery and meadery licenses, and craft distillery licenses.
“The New Jersey craft brewing and distilling industry is rapidly growing and quickly becoming a mainstay for tourists and locals alike,” said Senator Gopal (D-Monmouth). “This legislation would revolutionize the brewery scene, opening the door for local establishments to become nationally recognized brands. This is a burgeoning industry that when allowed to flourish will not only bring in revenue for the state, but also bring together residents and revitalize downtowns.”
Under the bill, craft alcoholic beverage manufacturers would be able to hold an unlimited number of on-premises special events, off-premises special events and private parties. In addition, they would be able to hold up to 25 social affair events hosted by the holder of a social affair permit.
“For years craft beverage manufacturers have been operating under strict guidelines, preventing them from reaching their full potential,” said Senator Greenstein (D-Middlesex/Mercer). “The legislation will remove harmful barriers to success and allow these local businesses to better serve their customers and their communities.”
The bill advanced from the Senate Law and Public Safety Committee and heads to the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee for further consideration.