Recap of Public Policy Day in Trenton
By Linda Principe, VP of Public Policy, Mercer Chapter

For those of you who missed NJAWBO Public Policy Day on March 20, you missed an exciting, interesting and informative day of networking and meeting with legislators and fellow NJAWBO members. Almost every chapter of the state was represented, with approximately 35 members in attendance.

Our own Paula Gould, now the Director of Administration for NJAWBO, did an outstanding job of ensuring that the day ran smoothly, along with Robin Berg Tabakin, our state VP of Public Policy.

Senator Diane Allen of Burlington opened the program. She spoke about how women should become more active in public policy, and especially how business owners need to have more representatives working for them in the legislature. She explained what it takes to run for office, and encouraged us to take the plunge, even starting with your local government. She said women really need to support other women running for office.

A panel of lobbyists spoke next, and they had several resounding messages. First, we need to be aware of the bills that are in process and how they affect small business. Second, we need to connect with our local legislators and let them know who we are, what our business does, and how those bills would affect our business. Pester your legislators. Then they'll listen. Third, organize your efforts with other business owners to create an even stronger effort.

In the afternoon, a panel spoke about the health care benefits dilemma and the costs of health insurance that face all of us each year.

Then we heard from Assemblywomen Linda Greenstein and Alison Littel McHose, who spoke briefly on a few current issues.

In the morning, we learned that the Senate was debating the "paid family leave bill", which would negatively affect numerous small businesses by requiring that they offer this leave to their employees. Alyce Hackett, our state president, and Elsa Reinhardt, our past state president, were able to go into the chambers and testify on behalf of the organization. This proved to be very effective. A short time later when the session ended, Senator Leonard Lance from the 23rd District came into our meeting and pledged his support for small business by making changes to this bill where he could.

Several of us made excellent contacts with our legislators and lobbyists and were able to discuss our issues face to face, which definitely made an impact.

I strongly encourage you to attend this important event next year. Let's show our legislators that NJAWBO is an even stronger voice in Trenton!