TRENTON, NJ(TIP):  A Resolution sponsored by Senator Vin Gopal and Senator Kristen M. Corrado that would designate the month of May each year as “Small Business Month” in New Jersey advanced from the Senate, June 7.

“Small businesses are what make the economy in New Jersey flow, and propel our state to an even brighter future,” said Senator Gopal (D-Monmouth).  “As a small business owner myself, I understand the day-to-day difficulties that these entrepreneurs can face.  I am committed to supporting mom-and-pops not only in Monmouth County, but throughout the entire state.”

The resolution, SJR-27, aims to recognize the vital importance of small businesses in the state and local economies, and how their success strengthens community identity and pride.

The resolution would request the Governor to annually issue a proclamation calling upon public officials, private organizations, and all citizens and residents of this state to observe the month by patronizing small businesses, as well as engaging in appropriate activities and programs designed to support small businesses across the state.

“The roundtable discussions were incredibly productive, and I hope we can take what we learned and apply them in order to make New Jersey a better state to do business in,” continued Senator Gopal.

New Jersey has over 800,000 small businesses, comprising more than 98 percent of all employers in the state.  Small businesses employ 1.7 million workers, making up more than 50 percent of the state’s workforce.  They have a strong presence in New Jersey communities, and support a range of local services.

During the month of May, Senator Gopal hosted a number of small business roundtable discussions to honor National Small Business Month. Business owners were encouraged to visit www.ReportRedTape.com, Senator Gopal’s small business initiative, to inform him about their business and submit written comments about the issues they have encountered.

The resolution was released from the Senate by a vote of 37-0, and next heads to the Assembly for further consideration.