Legislation advanced by the General Assembly today would require state agencies to provide an electronic notice option to NJ businesses for services

(TRENTON) — Assembly members Dave Bailey, Jr. and Heather Simmons’ legislation to modernize and streamline how the State sends notices to small business owners in New Jersey cleared the General Assembly today. Bill A798 would require State agencies to offer an option for businesses to receive legally required notices electronically.

"This bill came from a Salem County business owner who had an issue with state communications and came to me for help," said Assemblyman Bailey (D-Gloucester, Salem, Cumberland). "It's about flexibility, accountability, and the ability of the State to address the demands of 21^st century business. Supporting our small businesses includes meeting them where they are and in a day and age when so much is digitalized, legally required notices should be able to be received electronically as well.”

The bill was inspired by Matt Cassidy, owner of Salem Oak Vineyards, who was deployed overseas as a member of the United States Army. During that time, his business received a mailed notice from the State regarding a minor paperwork issue. The notice was missed, leading to complications that could have been avoided had the notice been sent electronically. His experience underscores the need for modern communication options from state agencies.

“This is another example of just some very simple minor tweaks that can really benefit a huge portion of the population,” said Mr. Cassidy. “You have business owners that are out there creating jobs, creating opportunities, filling needs, providing good services to local communities, and sometimes all they just need is clear communication. And so that's what we're asking for and really appreciate the Assembly going forth and making that one step towards a reality.”

Under the bill, State agencies responsible for issuing legally required notices to businesses would be required to notify any business within their purview of the optional electronic notification service and provide the business with the necessary information to opt in to the electronic notification service. These notices may include notices of violations, underpayment notifications, and employee unemployment claims.

“We talk about finding ways to make it easier for businesses to thrive here in New Jersey and this would be a simple, yet pivotal, enhancement,” said Assemblywoman Simmons (D-Gloucester, Salem, Cumberland). “This is a simple change that could make a big difference. Not just for Matt, but also for thousands of other business owners who are always on the go.”