Measure Would Create ‘Bulletin NJ’
TRENTON – Legislation sponsored by Senators Donald Norcross (D-Camden/Gloucester) and Linda Greenstein (D-Middlesex/Mercer) to help residents find work by creating a searchable Internet database listing all available government contracts today received final approved in the state Senate.
“Job seekers shouldn’t have to search various locations to track down which public agencies have contracting opportunities available,” said Senator Norcross. “By creating an online one-stop shop for contractors looking for work, we will ensure that contract listings are easily accessible to all prospective bidders and, in effect, increase our residents’ chances of finding a job.”
“Bulletin NJ will provide an invaluable resource to contractors, giving them instant access to bidding opportunities available at public entities across the state,” said Senator Greenstein. “At a time when so many people are unemployed, this will ensure those looking for contracting work have a wealth of information at their fingertips and, therefore, a greater probability of finding a job.”
The bill (S-2065) would create a searchable Internet database – to be known as “Bulletin NJ” – that would provide up-to-date information on requests for proposals and other government procurement opportunities published by a public contracting unit.
The database would be created by the Division of Local Government Services in the Department of Community Affairs, in consultation with the Office of Information Technology. It would be organized primarily by the name of the contracting unit publishing the job listings or request for proposals, and would be brought on line by March 1, 2012, under the legislation.
The Senate last month approved changes recommended by the Governor. It received final passage in the Senate today by a vote of 34-0. It needs final approval by the Assembly before heading back to the Governor for his signature.
