Sherrill pledges business-friendly approach at NJBIA forum

Gov. Mikie Sherrill promised closer collaboration with New Jersey’s business community during her first major address to corporate leaders since taking office, telling the New Jersey Business & Industry Association’s Public Policy Forum that streamlining government operations will be a top priority.

Sherrill outlined plans to reduce regulatory burdens and improve affordability during the Trenton forum, marking a shift toward business engagement that could reshape the state’s economic development strategy. The governor emphasized that making New Jersey more competitive requires direct input from the private sector.

“We need to work together to ensure our businesses can thrive here,” Sherrill said, according to remarks at the NJBIA event. Her administration plans to review existing regulations that may hinder business growth while maintaining necessary protections.

NJBIA President Michele Siekerka welcomed Sherrill’s approach, noting that previous administrations often developed policy without sufficient business input. The organization has long advocated for reforms to reduce the state’s regulatory complexity, particularly for manufacturing and logistics companies concentrated in Central Jersey.

The forum also featured legislative leaders including Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin and state senators discussing priorities for the new session. Energy costs and the Gateway Tunnel project emerged as key topics, with business leaders pressing for infrastructure investments that support economic growth.

Sherrill’s comments signal a potential departure from her predecessor’s approach to business relations. The governor acknowledged that New Jersey faces competition from neighboring states for corporate relocations and expansion projects, particularly in the pharmaceutical and technology sectors that anchor the state’s economy.

State Sen. Vin Gopal and Assemblyman Declan O’Scanlon participated in panel discussions about regulatory reform and tax policy. Both lawmakers emphasized the need for bipartisan solutions to address business climate concerns raised by NJBIA members.

The governor’s business-friendly messaging comes as New Jersey continues efforts to retain major employers and attract new investment. Recent corporate departures to lower-cost states have intensified focus on competitiveness issues, particularly around taxation and regulatory efficiency.

Siekerka said NJBIA looks forward to regular dialogue with the Sherrill administration on policy development, describing the forum as a positive first step toward improved government-business relations.