(NEWARK) – Assemblyman Albert Coutinho has been reappointed chairman of the Assembly Commerce and Economic Development Committee by Assembly Speaker Sheila Y. Oliver.
The committee is responsible for issues affecting urban enterprise zones, state and local redevelopment projects, corporate tax incentives and business grant programs.
“Assemblyman Coutinho has put his knowledge of economics to good use at the Assembly, pushing legislation to invigorate businesses, create jobs and stimulate economic development in urban areas,” said Oliver ((D-Essex/Passaic). “I’m confident that as chair, he will continue to lead the committee on measures that will be equally beneficial to businesses and residents in New Jersey.”
“During my tenure with the Assembly, I have worked steadily to implement measures to help businesses grow and promote economic growth on the local and state level, and I plan to continue this work as chair of this committee,” said Coutinho. “I’m thankful to Speaker Oliver and the leadership for allowing me to once again lead this panel, and I look forward to working with the rest of the committee on legislation to make our businesses more competitive, create jobs and strengthen our municipalities.”
Coutinho received his Bachelor of Science in economics and finance and his Master of Business Administration in international economics and organizational behavior from New York University.
Coutinho has been a leading voice in job creation efforts. He sponsored laws to expand the Urban Transit Hub Tax Credit, extend the commercial development fee moratorium for two years and create the Economic Redevelopment and Growth Grant, all of which have been major catalysts for growth in the state. His work was recognized by the New Jersey Chamber of Commerce which honored him with a Legislator of the Year Award in 2011.
Coutinho represents the 29th Legislative District, which includes the Essex County municipalities of Belleville and a portion of Newark.