Gov. Phil Murphy on Monday signed into law bill A-5728/S-4485 establishing the New Jersey Innovation Authority (NJIA).
Specifically, the legislation codifies the New Jersey State Office of Innovation (OOI) as an authority within the Department of the Treasury, building upon OOI’s efforts over the past seven years to modernize services for residents, businesses, and other New Jersey institutions.
New Jersey is the first state in the nation to enshrine a state innovation office into law, cementing human-centered, agile technology approaches as a cornerstone of New Jersey’s legacy in innovation.
“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,” Murphy said.
“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.”
NJBIA President and CEO Michele Siekerka spoke positively about the new law.
“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forward-thinking policy that will help our state to lead in the innovation space through efficiencies, modernization of outdated systems and more accessibility for our residents and businesses," Siekerka said.
"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.”
Under the NJIA, the Office of Innovation’s world-class talent in technology, engineering, data, design and policy will continue to incorporate agile software development, human-centered design principles, and data-driven processes to improve service design and delivery.
In August 2018, Gov. Murphy created the cabinet-level position of Chief Innovation Officer to lead the Office of Innovation. Beth Noveck served as the state’s inaugural Chief Innovation Officer until 2024 and was succeeded by Dave Cole.
“Now more than ever, we need a government that is efficient, effective, and equitable in its delivery of service to all New Jerseyans,” Cole said. “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 NJIA will consist of a 13-member Board of Directors appointed by the governor.
The Board of Directors will consist of ex-officio members and members of the public with knowledge and expertise in data science, public engagement, the development and implementation of digital technologies and digital product development, or the digital delivery of products, services, or benefits.
“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,” said Noveck, New Jersey State Chief AI Strategist.
“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.”
Since its formation, OOI’s work has expanded to include collaborations with nearly every State agency to transform resident interactions with government and make service delivery faster and more cost-effective.
“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,” said New Jersey Treasurer Elizabeth Maher Muoio. “With the partnership of this team, we will build on the strides we’ve already taken together to modernize call centers, to help New Jerseyans quickly start businesses, and much more.”
The four main sponsors of the bill also lauded its signing.
“From helping millions of residents across the state access benefits and job training programs to improving digital tools that make it easier to find rental assistance, the Office of Innovation has shown what is possible when government embraces modern, data-driven approaches,” said Senator Andrew Zwicker. “This legislation will establish the office as an authority and allow it to continue to flourish under future administrations.”
“The Office of Innovation has focused on developing tools to help our residents more easily connect with the services and programs they need,” said Senator Angela McKnight. “By establishing a permanent Innovation Authority, we will ensure that New Jersey remains committed to equity and efficiency in public service, meeting those in need wherever they are.”
“This is about building the infrastructure for long-term economic growth through cutting-edge technology,” said Assemblyman Chris Tully. “We’re laying the foundation for a smarter, more connected New Jersey that embraces innovation not just in words, but through bold, structured investment.”
“New Jersey residents deserve a government that moves at the speed of their lives,” said Assemblywoman Pintor Marin. “Establishing the Authority will help us modernize outdated systems, streamline services, increase accessibility, and deliver a more responsive, user-centered government for everyone who calls the Garden State home.”
“As New Jersey continues to position itself as a leader in innovation, the Office of Innovation has played a key role in developing technologies that help startups and other emerging companies grow,” said Assemblyman Bill Moen. “Codifying the Office into the New Jersey Innovation Authority would ensure its continuation into the future while bolstering the impact it can have on businesses throughout the state."
