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Bill

AC

Bill

A 1983

Creates certain assistance and set-aside programs for businesses owned by lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender persons, by persons with a disability, and by veterans.

2026-2027 Regular Session Introduced by Alixon Collazos-Gill and 1 co-sponsor

New Jersey bill establishes government contract set-asides and business assistance programs for LGBTQ+, disabled, and veteran entrepreneurs to increase access to capital and procurement opportunities.

Introduced, Referred to Assembly Commerce and Economic Development Committee
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 1983

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 1983 proposes creating assistance and set-aside programs in New Jersey specifically designed to support businesses owned by LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, and veterans. Set-asides typically reserve a percentage of government contracts or procurement opportunities for these designated groups. The bill aims to address potential barriers these entrepreneurs face in accessing capital, contracts, and business development resources.

Why is this important

Access to government contracts and business support programs significantly impacts small business growth and economic opportunity. Targeted assistance programs can help historically underrepresented groups in entrepreneurship build wealth and economic independence. The effectiveness of such programs depends heavily on implementation details, funding levels, and whether they complement or duplicate existing support mechanisms.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition and verification challenges: Determining who qualifies for each category (particularly sexual orientation and gender identity) and preventing fraud or misuse of set-asides could create administrative complexity and cost
  • Market impact concerns: Critics may argue set-asides increase costs for government procurement or create unfair competitive disadvantages for non-designated businesses, while supporters contend they correct systemic inequities
  • Scope and overlap: Questions about whether these programs duplicate existing small business assistance (women-owned, minority-owned enterprises) or create unnecessary bureaucratic redundancy

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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