Mukherji, McKnight Bill to Make Government Services More Efficient Clears Committee

Trenton – Legislation sponsored by Senator Raj Mukherji and Senator Angela V. McKnight that would seek to make state government operate more smoothly and efficiently was approved by the Senate State Government, Wagering, Tourism and Historic Preservation Committee.

The bill stipulates that once each calendar year all State and local entities providing direct services to the public be required to review all transactions overseen by the entity to determine any steps that might be taken to simplify, streamline, and expedite the delivery of such services in a manner that increases efficiency and reduces wait time to complete such transactions.

“Government agencies are notoriously bad at customer service. While government may not be in the business of turning a profit, it absolutely should be in the business of delivering value,” said Senator Mukherji (D-Hudson). “When New Jersey residents need to transact with a local or state government agency or obtain a license, permit, or certification, they deserve a process that is simple, efficient, and fast.

“This bill is about respecting taxpayers’ time, as well as their needs, and requiring that every level of government reviews, streamlines, and ensures the efficiency of their technologies and automated processes.”

Under the bill, S-3833, government departments would be required, whenever possible, to implement or expand online resources, automated services, or any other technologies that may make the delivery of government services more efficient and responsive to the needs of the people of New Jersey.

“It can be frustrating when a state resident seeks to obtain a needed license or record and finds themself caught in the runaround of bureaucracy for making what should be a routine or reasonable request,” said Senator McKnight (D-Hudson). “Government services on every level can stand to be reviewed on a regular basis to ensure that residents receive resources and services as efficiently as possible.”

The bill was released from committee on a vote of 5-0.