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Bill > A2586


NJ A2586

NJ A2586
Vacant Storefront Registry Program; establishes public database of vacant commercial space for small businesses.


summary

Introduced
01/13/2026
In Committee
01/13/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

2026-2027 Regular Session

Bill Summary

This bill requires the NJ Business Action Center (center), which is in the Department of State, to establish and maintain a public database of vacant commercial space available for purchase or lease by small businesses in this State. The database will include information such as: the square footage of any vacant commercial space; the capital equipment included in any vacant commercial space; and the building systems installed in any vacant commercial space, including, but not limited to, fire alarms, fire suppression systems, security systems, and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. Under the bill, the center is required, using information provided by commercial property owners, realtors, and municipalities in the State, to update the database on a monthly basis with new information concerning the availability of vacant commercial space. The bill requires the center to make the database available through its Internet web page and to publicize the availability of the database as part of an awareness campaign targeted at business associations, state and local chambers of commerce, and municipalities in the State. Under the bill, the Secretary of State is to require every owner of a commercial property in the State to notify, as necessary, the center when a commercial property belonging to such an owner becomes vacant, if no person or entity is presently scheduled to lease or purchase the property, or when such a property becomes occupied. For many industries, commercial space is often one of the most costly barriers to entry. The expense is compounded by the time dedicated to locating storefronts that are well-suited and appropriate for the needs of a business. The creation of a public database of vacant commercial space will expedite this process and help fill vacancies quickly.

AI Summary

This bill establishes a Vacant Storefront Registry Program, requiring the New Jersey Business Action Center (a state agency within the Department of State) to create and manage a public online database of commercial properties that are empty and available for small businesses to buy or rent. This database will list details like the size of the space, any included equipment, and the status of building systems such as fire alarms, security, and heating and cooling (HVAC). Commercial property owners, real estate agents, and local governments will provide the information, which the Business Action Center will update monthly. The center will also promote the database to business groups and local governments to help fill vacant spaces more quickly, addressing a common challenge for new businesses. Property owners will be obligated to inform the Business Action Center when their commercial property becomes vacant or occupied.

Committee Categories

Government Affairs

Sponsors (15)

Last Action

Introduced, Referred to Assembly Community Development and Women's Affairs Committee (on 01/13/2026)

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