NJBIA Comments on Strategies to Expand Shore Tourism Industry

NJBIA Chief Government Affairs Officer Chrissy Buteas submitted testimony today on strategies to expand and protect the tourism industry for New Jersey’s coastal communities at the Senate State Government, Wagering, Tourism and Historic Preservation Committee in Atlantic City.

New Jersey tourism is a $45.5 billion industry, providing more than 102,000 jobs for the state and generating $17.8 billion in state and local tax revenue, Buteas wrote.

As much of New Jersey’s tourism industry is fueled by small and medium-size businesses, Buteas cautioned that many are unable to absorb the added costs of complying with new laws, regulations and state mandates. She said the enactment of a $15 minimum wage “will undermine our best efforts to grow the tourism industry” without exemptions for small seasonal businesses.

NJBIA also recommended a more streamlined environmental permitting process to further encourage new business investment in shore communities. Buteas also said NJBIA supports smart-growth policies and mass transportation improvements for coastal communities in South Jersey to enhance tourism and employment.

A link to Buteas’ full testimony can be found here.