To spotlight products made in the Garden State, a bill sponsored by Assembly Democrats Eric Houghtaling, Joann Downey and Clinton Calabrese to create an official “NJ-Made” logo to be used by in-state manufacturers received final legislative approval on Monday, passing the full Assembly by a vote tally of 75-0-0.
“A state brand showcases the variety of goods and products made right here in New Jersey,” said Houghtaling (D-Monmouth). “We can celebrate and raise awareness of New Jersey’s manufacturing sector by promoting state production anywhere the product is sold in the world. That’s just good business.”
“Many other states are similarly developing a brand for products made in their state,” said Downey (D-Downey). “I think it’s a good idea and shows pride in our manufacturing industry, NJ-based companies and invests in their success.”
The bill (A-3692) would require the Department of State to develop and designate a “New Jersey-Made” or “NJ-Made” official State logo and make it available on a website to manufacturers and producers of products made in the State. The Department would develop guidelines for the use of the logo.
“The dollar value of New Jersey’s manufactured goods have increased almost 75% since 2000 and account for nearly 90 percent of New Jersey’s exports. These goods are shipped throughout the United States and all over the globe,” said Calabrese (D-Bergen, Passaic). “The NJ-Made logo could help to bolster investment in New Jersey’s already booming manufacturing sector, which supports almost a quarter-of-a-million jobs, and will justifiably serve as a source of pride to our manufacturers, their employees and our residents.”
The measure now heads to the Governor’s desk.