new jersey business & industry association

The mandatory hike kicks in on Jan. 1.

New Jersey business groups don't put an endless amount of trust in the state's ability to budget properly.

As the warmer months approach in year #2 of a pandemic, New Jersey business and nonprofit leaders are begging for more clarity and freedom from the Murphy Administration in the way of coronavirus restrictions.

The pandemic's impact on New Jersey businesses in 2020, plus its anticipated impact on 2021 revenues, equals fewer perks and limited pay raises next year for workers, according to a survey released by the New Jersey Business & Industry Association.

More than three-quarters of those surveyed by the New Jersey Business & Industry Association said they anticipate future losses related to the health crisis.

Despite pleas from the business community, New Jersey's minimum hourly rate will jump to $12 in January 2021.

"I already stopped taking outdoor reservations," said Mark Bernard, general manager of Charlie's of Bay Head.

The findings suggest the way comments are interpreted likely varies by generation.

If New Jersey businesses were given the green light to open their doors and operate under social distancing guidelines, most owners in the state believe they could follow the rules — but making enough money to survive is another story.

They don't like to let people go, even if it's temporary.