Bill > A5728

This bill establishes the New Jersey Innovation Authority (NJ Innovation Authority), a public body corporate and politic within the Department of the Treasury, designed to serve as the state's primary authority on technology innovation. The authority will consist of 13 members, including four ex officio members (from the Office of Information Technology, Economic Development Authority, State Treasury, and Governor's Counsel) and nine public members appointed by the Governor with expertise in areas like data science, digital technologies, and public engagement. The day-to-day operations will be directed by a Chief Innovation Officer appointed initially by the Governor and subsequently by the authority. The authority's key responsibilities include advising the executive branch on innovation trends, promoting responsible use of emerging technologies, developing innovation metrics, supporting technology modernization efforts, proposing an annual budget, accepting private foundation funds, entering into contracts, providing grants, and implementing innovation-related initiatives across state government. The bill allows the authority flexibility in procurement, including the ability to make certain purchases without public bidding and to collaborate with nonprofit entities like the National Center for Civic Innovation. Members will serve without compensation but can be reimbursed for expenses, and the authority can be dissolved by legislative act if it has no outstanding obligations.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/A5728