(TRENTON) – Encouraging the state to highlight products that are made in New Jersey, Assembly Democrats Eric Houghtaling, Joann Downey and Clinton Calabrese have sponsored legislation that would create an official “NJ-Made” logo which could be used by in-state manufacturers on their products. The bill was released by the Assembly Commerce and Economic Development Committee on Monday.
“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 to 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 as an official State logo a “New Jersey-Made” or “NJ-Made” logo and make the logo available to manufacturers and producers of New Jersey-made products. The department will develop guidelines for the use of the logo, and to make the logo available to manufacturers and producers through an Internet website.
“The dollar value of New Jersey’s manufactured goods exports 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.”
It would take effect 90 days following the date of enactment, except that the Department of State may take any anticipatory administrative action in advance as necessary for the implementation of this bill.
The bill will now go to the Assembly Speaker for further consideration.