Gov. Phil Murphy signed a bipartisan measure into law Wednesday establishing a certification for LGBTQ+-owned businesses.

The legislation codifies a program established in May 2022 through Executive Order No. 295. At that time, Murphy stressed that LGBTQ+ businesses are critical to the state’s economic health and growth. He also directed the Treasury Department to establish a business certification to support underrepresented groups in gaining access to certain contracting opportunities and government programs. That program opened last year.

Some particulars of the LGBTQ+-owned businesses certification include:

• Free of charge
• Enables businesses to proudly identify as LGBTQ+-owned in their advertising
• Eligible businesses are at least 51% LGBTQ+-owned and controlled
• Certification is valid for five years; participants must reapply for certification ahead of the expiration date

To date, the Treasury has certified more than 140 LGBTQ+ businesses across the state.

“Dozens of businesses have become certified as an LGBTQ+-owned enterprise since the launch of the program one year ago,” said Treasurer Elizabeth Maher Muoio.

She thanked the dedicated staff of the Treasury Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services, which oversees the certification process. The state treasurer cited their hard work in launching the program and helping Jersey businesses grow and thrive.

“Treasury is proud to play a role in elevating LGBTQ+-owned businesses, as well as small, minority, women, and veteran-owned enterprises that help make up the backbone of our economy,” said Muoio.

The legislation (Senate Bill 1313/Assembly Bill 3330) signed into law by Murphy codifies these efforts.

‘Proud to celebrate’

“New Jersey is proud to celebrate our LGBTQ+ community year-round – but it is particularly special to sign this law into effect just a few weeks ahead of Pride month,” said Murphy. “LGBTQ+ business owners are critical to the Garden State and our economy.”

Murphy said he was honored to support endeavors that uplift underrepresented communities and embrace authenticity.

“By codifying this certification program in statute, we ensure that the opportunity to proudly identify as an LGBTQ+-owned business will last for many years to come,” said Murphy.

Senate Majority Leader Teresa Ruiz, D-29th District is a prime bill sponsor. She described the move as not just a legal step, but a societal victory for LGBTQ+ businesses. Ruiz said it grants them recognition they’ve long deserved.

“This certification parallels the support extended to minority-owned, women-owned, and veteran-owned enterprises, offering equal footing for growth and access to vital resources,” said Ruiz. “New Jersey is leading the way as the first state in the nation to codify this certification.”

“Today is a historic day for our LGBTQ+ community who will be recognized in New Jersey,” said Gus Penaranda, executive director of the NJ Pride Chamber of Commerce. “As the first state to codify the certification process for LGBTQ+ certifications. In times where our community is constantly silenced and attacked – this sends a clear message to all businesses looking to invest in New Jersey that we are a welcoming state.”