ROSELAND, N.J. – The greatest issue impacting the operation of a business in New Jersey over the next 12 months is the state’s fiscal problems, according to nearly 30 percent of the 347 respondents in a survey conducted by the New Jersey Society of CPAs (NJCPA) earlier this month. State and local taxes ranked second at nearly 27 percent.

On a broader scale, respondents cited high taxes, pension and health benefits funding for public employees, and regulatory burdens as the top issues that are likely to hinder the state’s future economic growth. Rising health care costs and decaying infrastructure also rounded out their main concerns.

Respondents explained that global trade tariffs and the uncertainty that it and other federal policies bring at the state level could also impact New Jersey-based businesses. In addition, respondents said the state’s minimum wage increase is also a hindrance to business owners.

The majority of respondents (45 percent) cited the current business climate in New Jersey as “fair,” with about a third (33 percent) calling it “good.” About 20 percent ranked the business climate as “poor.”

“The survey shows us that the New Jersey legislature has a lot more work to do to keep residents and businesses happy enough to remain in the state. A positive business sentiment is necessary to improve economic growth,” said Ralph Albert Thomas, CPA (DC), CGMA, CEO and executive director at NJCPA.