Mercer Times

Governor Murphy announced the release of the New Jersey Office of Innovation's (OOI) inaugural Impact Report, highlighting its influence on state services. Established six years ago, OOI aims to enhance residents' lives by innovating government service delivery.

Governor Murphy stated, "As the Impact Report clearly shows, the Office of Innovation’s collaborations with State agencies have improved how New Jersey State government delivers services to residents, businesses, and institutions across the Garden State." He noted improvements such as reduced application times for unemployment benefits and decreased call center wait times. These efforts have reportedly saved money for the state and made business operations easier in New Jersey.

First Lady Tammy Murphy praised OOI's collaboration with the Department of Labor on the Maternity Coverage Tool, which aids understanding of paid family leave benefits. She emphasized its role in fulfilling Nurture NJ recommendations and assisting over 115,000 residents in planning parental leave. "Through innovations in technology and policy," she said, "we will make New Jersey the safest, most equitable place to deliver and raise a baby."

Chief Innovation Officer Dave Cole highlighted OOI's role during uncertain times like unemployment or housing instability. He credited Governor Murphy's leadership for tackling challenges alongside residents whose feedback guided their work. Cole expressed eagerness to continue making positive impacts.

The Office of Innovation was founded in 2018 by Governor Murphy with Beth Simone Noveck as Chief Innovation Officer. Since then, it has collaborated with nearly every state agency on numerous high-impact projects detailed in their report.

To learn more about OOI's accomplishments, interested parties are encouraged to read the Impact Report.