The concern of public relations is one that faces every interest group, in and outside of New Jersey. Often, the question is posed of whether or not a lobbyist firm should be involved in the process– and can be just as swiftly met with disapproval. This is unfortunate, as public affairs have every bit to do with the success of a business or interest group and only lobbying can bring this matter to the forefront. New Jersey government affairs and the public relations of an interest group may benefit each other when the relationship is right. The following describes the social climate of the state of New Jersey, a brief view of what a local interest group may wish to take into consideration when deciding on the use of a lobbying firm.
New Jersey Education
The educational layout of New Jersey is quite impressive on the whole, suggesting that voters take this matter seriously. Local New Jersey schools have the second lowest dropout rate in the U.S. and the fourth best reading and math scores. The local colleges and universities employ around 17,000 people, which is a sizable number in proportion to the total population. A focus on the importance of education should be a priority for the public relations of any local interest group, as well as that of any potential NJ lobbying firm.
New Jersey Economics
The financial burdens of New Jersey locals paints a much more varied picture than the positives of education. The household electricity bills are the 10th highest in the nation and average at about $3,065 per year. The domestic concerns don?t end there, however; data from the Mortgage Banker?s Association?s National Delinquency Survey has shown that 10.2% of local NJ mortgages are either in foreclosure or three months behind on payments, which is much higher than the national average of 3.95%. That said, the state spent $1,700,000 last year on street paving in order to restore roads and highways. The lobbying firm for a local interest group should reflect the concern of these varied financial burdens.
New Jersey Voting
Local voting habits can be crucial to understanding a successful method of approach to public relations. Two thirds of New Jersey residents are in favor of expanded early in-person voting and automatic Motor Vehicle Commission registration. This same amount out of 867 adults has shown interest in bill A4613, requiring pre-election materials to be printed in more languages. This conveys that New Jersey voters are interested in making voting an accessible process to as many different people as possible. Diversity, therefore, is a concern that local interest groups and their partnering lobbying firms must take into consideration.
The state of New Jersey is a varied place with many different needs and concerns, something that interest groups and successful lobbying firms can work together to understand.
