Gov. Phil Murphy has signed bill A-5728/S-4485 into law, establishing the New Jersey Innovation Authority (NJIA). The new law formalizes the New Jersey State Office of Innovation as an authority within the Department of the Treasury, expanding on efforts to modernize state services for residents and businesses.
New Jersey becomes the first state to make a state innovation office permanent by law, aiming to use technology-focused approaches in government operations. Governor Murphy said, “With the permanent establishment of the New Jersey Innovation Authority, we are ensuring state government continues to deliver more efficient and effective services for New Jerseyans long after my time in office.” He added, “From advancing responsible AI use to streamlining processes for residents, our Office of Innovation has made remarkable strides for our state since its establishment in 2018. I look forward to watching the New Jersey Innovation Authority develop new solutions to real-world problems, save our residents and businesses time and money, and further New Jersey’s reputation as a national leader in innovation.”
Michele Siekerka, President and CEO of the New Jersey Business & Industry Association (NJBIA), commented on the passage: “The establishment of a permanent New Jersey Innovation Authority is smart, forward-thinking policy that will help our state to lead in the innovation space through efficiencies, modernization of outdated systems and more accessibility for our residents and businesses. The office can also remain nimble and proactive as it relates to emerging or updated technologies. NJBIA thanks Governor Murphy and the sponsors for their support of this bill.” Siekerka leads NJBIA, which represents employers across sectors throughout New Jersey and offers advocacy and essential information for business prosperity according to its official website.
The NJIA will oversee ongoing work by technology professionals in areas such as data analysis, engineering, design, software development, and policy. This group aims to improve service delivery using agile methods and human-centered design principles.
Beth Noveck was appointed as Chief Innovation Officer when Gov. Murphy created this position in 2018; Dave Cole succeeded her in 2024. Cole stated: “Now more than ever, we need a government that is efficient, effective, and equitable in its delivery of service to all New Jerseyans. This new structure stands a model of what we know works: a data-driven, human-centered, and agile approach to improving the critical services that support our residents and grow our economy. I thank Governor Murphy and the New Jersey State Legislature for their vision and leadership over the past seven years to establish and codify innovation efforts.”
The newly formed authority will be led by a 13-member Board of Directors appointed by the governor with expertise spanning data science; digital product development; public engagement; or delivery of digital products or services.
Beth Noveck—now serving as Chief AI Strategist—said: “The Office of Innovation has become a national model for delivering better, more human-centered government – from modernizing critical services and reducing administrative burden to responsibly deploying AI tools that improve efficiency, access, and equity for New Jerseyans. Its focus on real-world impact, interdisciplinary talent, and building alongside the public has helped position New Jersey as a leader in service delivery and responsible innovation. The creation of the Innovation Authority reflects a clear commitment to sustaining and scaling this work.”
State Treasurer Elizabeth Maher Muoio highlighted collaborations with agencies statewide: “The new NJIA will help agencies across New Jersey state government focus even more on how we can make technology human-centered, effective, and efficient…to modernize call centers [and] help New Jerseyans quickly start businesses…”
Sponsors including Senator Andrew Zwicker noted impacts such as improved access benefits: “From helping millions…access benefits…to improving digital tools that make it easier…the Office of Innovation has shown what is possible when government embraces modern…approaches.” Other sponsors stressed commitments toward equity (Senator Angela McKnight), economic growth via technology (Assemblyman Chris Tully), modernization (Assemblywoman Pintor Marin), supporting startups (Assemblyman Bill Moen), among other goals.
NJBIA remains involved with business advocacy statewide while promoting collaboration between business communities according to its official profile.
