Legislation sponsored by Senator Robert Singer that will expand certain grant opportunities for individuals employed at state colleges and universities was signed into law today by Governor Murphy.

Legislation sponsored by Sen. Robert Singer that will expand certain grant opportunities for individuals employed at state colleges and universities was signed into law today by Gov. Murphy. (Pixabay)

“I’m proud this bill was signed into law. Lifting the prohibition on state grants for certain researchers will promote innovation and help integrate more advanced technologies into New Jersey industries,” said Singer (R-30). “This legislation will allow certain researchers employed at our public colleges and universities to obtain state grants issued by the Commission on Science, Innovation and Technology.”

The New Jersey Commission on Science, Innovation and Technology was established in 1985 with the purpose of supporting economic development in New Jersey through scientific and technological advances.

Singer’s legislation, S-3402, amends New Jersey’s conflict of interest law to permit researchers, their partners, companies, or firms in which they have ownership or control, to receive grant funding for various scientific and technological purposes.

Previously, employees and officers at state colleges and universities were banned from receiving state grants from the Commission on Science, Innovation and Technology. Instead, the commission supported entities formed at institutions of higher education that conducted research and development in emerging technologies deemed beneficial for the state’s economy.

“Grant programs provide a significant source of capital that supports valuable initiatives led by scientists and researchers,” Singer added. “This bill removes unnecessary restrictions for state college and university employees who own licensed technologies to expand opportunities for technological advancement in New Jersey.”