Connors, Rumpf & Gove

November 22, 2010   

Contact: Jason Smith / (609) 693-6700
District 9

The Senate Military and Veterans’ Affairs Committee today approved legislation (S-2314) sponsored by Senator Christopher J. Connors, Assemblyman Brian E. Rumpf and Assemblywoman DiAnne C. Gove of the 9th Legislative District that would establish a set-aside program whereby three percent of all State contracts would be set aside for veteran-owned businesses.

The 9th District Delegation’s measure was amended in Committee to incorporate recommendations brought forth by the New Jersey American Legion.

Connors, Rumpf and Gove issued the following statement regarding their veteran initiative:

“The ongoing recession has created economic hardships for many but has hit our veterans unusually hard. In recognition of this unfortunate economic reality and the sacrifice by these brave individuals in service to our nation, our Delegation is spearheading the effort to create a set-aside program to ensure that veteran-owned businesses are offered the first opportunity to secure a fixed percentage of State contracts.

“Our legislative initiative has been strengthened through amendments recommended by the New Jersey American Legion. Businesses applying to participate in the set-aside program would be required to provide documentation proving veteran status as well as proof stock ownership to ensure that at least 51 percent of the business is owned and operated by veterans. This requirement will act to prevent any abuse of the program by ineligible business owners who would thus deny opportunities to qualified veteran-owned businesses.

“From the outset, this has been a bipartisan effort, as we have worked closely with the Chairmen of the Senate and Assembly Military and Veterans’ Affairs Committees to advance this legislation with the primary goal of creating economic opportunities for our veterans in the state.”

With regard to another veteran-centered initiative, Senator Connors, Assemblyman Rumpf and Assemblywoman Gove have joined on as co-sponsors to legislation (A-1958/S-2192) advancing in the Legislature that would authorize a special Gold Star Family motor vehicle plate for parents of military personnel who died while on active duty.

The Senate Military and Veterans’ Affairs Committee today approved legislation (S-2314) sponsored by Senator Christopher J. Connors, Assemblyman Brian E. Rumpf and Assemblywoman DiAnne C. Gove of the 9th Legislative District that would establish a set-aside program whereby three percent of all State contracts would [...]