Mercer Times

Governor Phil Murphy has announced a significant investment in New Jersey's child care sector, with more than $1 billion allocated to enhance access to affordable, high-quality child care across the state. An additional $17 million in funding has been designated for the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) Child Care Facilities Improvement Program. This brings the total investment in improving child care infrastructure to over $140 million, marking one of the largest commitments by any state in the nation.

The NJEDA program offers grants up to $200,000 for eligible child care providers to improve early childhood learning environments. So far, it has approved $85 million in grants for over 400 centers that serve more than 34,000 children and employ over 8,500 staff members. With the new funding, an estimated 200 additional centers are expected to benefit.

Governor Murphy stated: “Affordable, exceptional child care is a vital part of a stronger and fairer New Jersey economy." He also expressed gratitude towards the Biden-Harris Administration for providing federal funding that aids families in New Jersey.

In another development under the Biden-Harris Administration’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), New Jersey will receive more than $168 million for water infrastructure improvements. This includes funds for drinking water and wastewater enhancements aimed at ensuring safe water delivery and management across communities.

“We are grateful to the Biden-Harris Administration...for their continued support," said Governor Murphy regarding this environmental initiative.

Additionally, Governor Murphy announced a partnership between NJEDA and New Jersey Innovation Institute (NJII) to launch NJII Venture Studio at Newark's Paul Profeta Center. This Strategic Innovation Center aims to accelerate technology commercialization developed by NJIT and its partners.

"The NJII Venture Studio...will provide aspiring entrepreneurs with access to cutting-edge technology," said Governor Murphy about this innovation initiative.

Lieutenant Governor Tahesha Way outlined measures for ensuring fair elections in 2024. These include efforts from various state departments focusing on election security and voter protection initiatives.

“As chief election official...we ensure that our elections are safe," said Lieutenant Governor Way.

Lastly, New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU) has adopted minimum filing requirements directing electric distribution companies to expand charging access for medium-and-heavy-duty electric vehicles. This move is part of efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from transportation sectors affecting local air quality.

“Today’s announcement by the BPU is a key part of my Administration’s whole-of-government approach," stated Governor Murphy on these clean transportation initiatives.