Exploring New Jersey's development, this overview highlights the state's LGBTQ+ communities, religious pluralism, economic strengths, and taxation. It delves into the establishment of inclusive neighborhoods, the election of groundbreaking political figures, and the celebration of various faiths. Economic insights include New Jersey's high GSP, millionaire density, and the challenges of high living costs and federal tax imbalances, alongside its diverse industrial sectors.
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Gayborhoods, such as those in Jersey City and Asbury Park, have been established in New Jersey to provide a welcoming atmosphere and support for LGBTQ+ individuals
First Openly Gay Mayor
In 2018, Reed Gusciora was elected as Trenton's first openly gay mayor, marking a historic moment for LGBTQ+ representation in New Jersey
First Openly Transgender City Council Member
In 2022, Jennifer Williams became the first openly transgender city council member in New Jersey, furthering the state's progress towards inclusivity and diversity
Rainbow Crosswalks
Towns like Maplewood and Rahway have installed permanent rainbow crosswalks as a symbol of inclusivity and acceptance for the LGBTQ+ community
LGBTQ+ Inclusive Curriculum
In 2019, New Jersey implemented an LGBTQ+ inclusive curriculum in schools, signed into law by Governor Phil Murphy, to protect and empower the LGBTQ+ community
New Jersey's religious composition reflects its cultural diversity, with a rich tapestry of faiths including Catholicism, Protestantism, Judaism, Hinduism, and Islam
World's Largest Hindu Temple
New Jersey is home to the world's largest Hindu temple outside of Asia, located in Robbinsville, and celebrates October as Hindu Heritage Month
First Sikh American Attorney General
In 2018, Gurbir Grewal made history as the first Sikh American to hold the position of state attorney general in the United States
First Female Muslim American Mayor
In 2019, Sadaf Jaffer became the first female Muslim American mayor in the nation, showcasing New Jersey's commitment to diversity and representation
New Jersey's economy boasts a gross state product of approximately $753 billion and has one of the highest concentrations of millionaires per capita in the United States
Progressive Income Tax System
New Jersey's fiscal policies feature a progressive income tax system with rates ranging from 1.4% to 8.97%, alongside a standard sales tax rate of 6.625%
Urban Enterprise Zones
To stimulate economic growth, New Jersey offers reduced sales tax rates in designated Urban Enterprise Zones
Property Tax Relief for Seniors
In 2023, Governor Phil Murphy introduced the StayNJ program, providing property tax relief to senior citizens in response to the state's high cumulative tax rate
New Jersey faces a federal taxation imbalance, receiving a smaller proportion of federal aid compared to the taxes it pays, compounded by high living costs and less favorable federal funding formulas
New Jersey's economy is characterized by a diverse array of industries, including pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, information technology, finance, tourism, filmmaking, telecommunications, and agriculture
Prominent Agricultural Products
New Jersey is a leading producer of various agricultural products, including blueberries, cranberries, spinach, bell peppers, peaches, and head lettuce
Economic Impact
The agricultural sector, particularly in South Jersey, plays a crucial role in the state's economy and has become a key hub for logistics and warehouse development on the East Coast
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First openly gay mayor of Trenton
Reed Gusciora, elected in 2018.
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NJ's first openly transgender city council member
Jennifer Williams, elected in 2022.
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NJ LGBTQ+ inclusive curriculum law
Signed by Gov. Phil Murphy in Jan 2019, mandates LGBTQ+ inclusive education.
