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MD

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A 5607

Establishes Inclusive Workplaces Program in EDA to provide grants and tax credits to encourage employer investment in workspaces inclusive of neurodivergent employees; appropriates $2.5 million.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Mitchelle Drulis and 2 co-sponsors

Bill A 5607 allocates $2.5M for grants and tax credits to encourage businesses in New Jersey to create inclusive workspaces for neurodivergent employees.

Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly Commerce, Economic Development and Agriculture Committee
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Bill Summary · A 5607

Summary of Bill A 5607: Establishes Inclusive Workplaces Program

Bill Number: A 5607
Introduced On: May 5, 2025
Sponsored By:
- Assemblyman Chris Tully (District 38, Bergen)
- Assemblywoman Carmen Theresa Morales (District 34, Essex)
Status: Introduced in the Assembly, referred to the Assembly Commerce, Economic Development and Agriculture Committee
Appropriation: $2.5 million

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 5607 aims to establish the Inclusive Workplaces Program under the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (EDA). The primary goal of this program is to provide financial incentives, in the form of grants and tax credits, to encourage employers to create workspaces that are inclusive of neurodivergent employees. This initiative seeks to promote diversity and inclusivity in the workplace, particularly for individuals who may have different cognitive processing styles.

Key Provisions

The bill outlines several important components:

  1. Definitions:

    • Eligible Large-Business Employer: A business with 150 or more employees, including at least three neurodivergent employees.
    • Eligible Small-Business Employer: A business with fewer than 150 employees, including at least one neurodivergent employee.

  2. Program Components:

    • Grants for Small Businesses: Grants will be available to small businesses to support capital and workforce investments aimed at creating neurodiversity-friendly workspaces. The maximum grant amount is $25,000, with a total cap of $2.5 million in grants issued per calendar year.
    • Tax Credits for Large Businesses: Large businesses can receive tax credits equal to $25,000 or 50% of their documented investments in creating inclusive workspaces, whichever is less.

  3. Application Process:

    • Employers must submit applications to the EDA detailing their proposed investments and demonstrating their commitment to accommodating neurodivergent employees. The applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with preference given to those showing long-term commitment to inclusivity.

  4. Types of Investments:

    • Investments may include sensory-friendly workspace layouts, adaptive equipment (e.g., noise-canceling headphones), and workforce training programs focused on neurodiversity.

Impact

The Inclusive Workplaces Program is expected to:
- Encourage businesses to invest in inclusive practices that support neurodivergent employees.
- Foster a more diverse workforce in New Jersey, enhancing the overall work environment and productivity.
- Provide financial support to small and large businesses, making it easier for them to implement necessary changes.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill is currently in the early stages of the legislative process, having been introduced and referred to the relevant committee for further consideration.
  • The appropriation of $2.5 million indicates a significant commitment by the state to support this initiative.

Related Legislation

  • S 4118: A companion bill in the Senate that aligns with the objectives of A 5607.

This summary provides an overview of Bill A 5607, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and potential impact on New Jersey's workforce inclusivity efforts.

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

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