New Jersey Assembly Bill A1133

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

Concerns business entities employed by the Governor or the office of Governor to conduct certain investigations.

Impact

The bill impacts the governance of State laws by introducing stricter guidelines around how business entities can engage with governmental figures, particularly the Governor. It aims to prevent situations where companies that have vested interests could sway investigation outcomes involving the Governor. By creating these boundaries, the bill seeks to promote fairness and transparency in the relationship between private business and public service, ensuring that investigations are conducted without biases that could arise from financial support or contractual obligations.

Summary

Assembly Bill A1133 seeks to regulate the interactions between business entities and the Governor's office regarding contracts for investigations. Specifically, it prohibits a business that holds a contract with any State agency or has made a campaign contribution to the Governor's committee from entering into a contract with the Governor or their office. These restrictions are in place for the duration of the Governor's term. The intention behind this legislation is to curb potential conflicts of interest and ensure the integrity of investigations conducted involving the Governor's office.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding A1133 may stem from concerns about its implications for business operations and the broader effects on government transparency. Critics could argue that the restrictions may hinder the state’s ability to hire qualified businesses for investigations, particularly those with previous engagements with state agencies. They may highlight that limiting businesses' contributions to the Governor's campaign could inadvertently reduce their willingness to engage with public sector contracts, potentially affecting service quality and competition. Proponents, on the other hand, likely see it as a necessary measure to uphold ethical standards and restore public trust in governmental processes.