The New Jersey Secretary of Commerce Act establishes the Department of Commerce as a principal department within the Executive Branch of the State government. The act appoints a Secretary of Commerce, who will be the chief executive officer of the department, responsible for overseeing the development and support of business, industry, and innovation in New Jersey. The Secretary will be appointed by the Governor with Senate approval and will serve at the Governor's pleasure. The bill also mandates the transfer of the Business Action Center from the Department of State to the new Department of Commerce, ensuring continuity of its functions and duties.

Additionally, the Secretary is required to submit an annual State of Commerce report to the Governor and the Legislature, detailing the department's operations and recommendations for enhancing state economic policy. Within three months of the act's effective date, the Secretary must prepare a report identifying functions related to commerce and economic development that may be transferred to or from the department. Furthermore, within six months, a review of the operations and personnel of transferred agencies will be conducted to determine if reorganization is necessary, with the approval of relevant state commissions. The bill also includes an appropriation from the General Fund for its implementation and sets the salary for the Secretary of Commerce.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 52:14-15.107