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AJR 31

Relating to: proclaiming March 31, 2025, as Wisconsin’s Transgender Day of Visibility.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Clint Anderson and 28 co-sponsors

Designates August each year as Black Business Month in New Jersey and urges a gubernatorial proclamation and public observance to support Black-owned businesses.

Read and referred to Committee on Rules
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Bill Summary · AJR 31

AJR 31 (Introduced as of January 9, 2024) — Designates August as “Black Business Month” in New Jersey

Overview

AJR 31 is a joint resolution that designates the month of August in New Jersey every year as “Black Business Month.” The resolution emphasizes support for Black-owned businesses and calls for awareness, reflection, and action to promote their long-term success and broader economic impact within the state.

Purpose and Intent

  • Recognize and promote the importance of Black-owned businesses to New Jersey’s economy.
  • Align with the national observance of Black Business Month, established in August 2004, to influence policy agendas, support Black-owned businesses, and promote greater economic freedom for Black Americans.
  • Encourage government officials, community leaders, and educational and cultural institutions to observe the month with appropriate activities and programs.
  • Address economic disparities historically faced by Black residents, including higher unemployment, lower home ownership, and less household wealth, by supporting Black-owned businesses.

Key Provisions

  • Designation: August of each year shall be designated as “Black Business Month” in New Jersey.
  • Proclamation: The Governor is respectfully requested to issue an annual proclamation recognizing August as Black Business Month and to encourage institutions of learning and culture to observe the month with suitable activities and programs.
  • Effective Date: The resolution states that it shall take effect immediately.

Who/What is Affected

  • Black-owned businesses in New Jersey and Black business owners.
  • State government leadership, including the Governor, state agencies, and cultural/educational institutions, which would be encouraged to participate in commemorative activities.
  • The resolution provides a framework for public awareness and advocacy rather than creating new programs or funding.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

  • Status: Introduced in the Assembly; referred to the Assembly Committee on Community Development and Women's Affairs.
  • Introduced Date: January 9, 2024.
  • Sponsorship: Primary sponsor Verlina Reynolds-Jackson.
  • Related Legislation: SJR 91 (companion in the Senate).

Background Context Included in the Bill

  • The summary and statement sections cite national data indicating Black-owned businesses represent about 10% of U.S. businesses, with a notable share of owners being female.
  • The bill highlights the disproportionate impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Black-owned businesses (cited figures in the statement) and argues that recognizing Black Business Month could help focus policy and community efforts to support recovery and long-term success.

Summary

AJR 31 is a symbolic, commemorative joint resolution proposing the annual designation of August as Black Business Month in New Jersey, accompanied by a gubernatorial proclamation and public observance by educational and cultural institutions. It seeks to elevate awareness of Black-owned businesses and encourage actions that promote economic freedom and resilience for Black business communities in the state.

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

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