News Release: 2/3/2026 NJ Chamber Business Update


New Jersey Chamber of Commerce   Presented by:EisnerAmper
 

New Jersey Chamber Insider

Business News, Advice and Trends

Feb. 3, 2026  Content Curated By Scott Goldstein
 

Today's Highlights

  • Gateway Development Commission files federal lawsuit to restore funding for Hudson tunnel project.

 

  • Sherrill’s picks for attorney general, treasurer clear first Senate hurdle.

 

  • Kevin Dehmer is pick to be state’s next chief technology officer.

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Gateway Development Commission files federal lawsuit to restore funding for Hudson tunnel project

With a potential shutdown of the biggest infrastructure project in a century just days away, the Gateway Development Commission on Monday filed a lawsuit against the federal government in the U.S. Court of Federal Claims seeking judgment that would release contractually-obligated grant and loan funds for the Hudson Tunnel Project. If the additional funding does not become available by Feb. 6, construction of the Hudson Tunnel Project will have to pause, resulting in the loss of nearly 1,000 jobs, GDC officials said. The argument is simple: The funds already have been appropriated; they just need to be released. (BINJE)

 

Sherrill’s picks for attorney general, treasurer clear first Senate hurdle

Two of Gov. Sherrill’s top cabinet nominess cleared a key hurdle on their way to winning confirmation from the Senate. The Senate Judiciary Committee on Monday approved the governor’s nomination of Jennifer Davenport to serve as N.J.’s attorney general, the state's highest-ranking law enforcement position. Also getting the approval of the Senate committee was Aaron Binder, Sherrill’s pick for state treasurer. (NJ Spotlight News)

 

Kevin Dehmer is pick to be state’s next chief technology officer

Kevin Dehmer, a former commissioner of education and former executive director at the Heldrich Center for Workforce Development, has been selected by Gov. Sherrill to be the state’s next chief technology officer, the administration announced Monday. Dehmer’s task is to advance the modernization of N.J.’s digital infrastructure, improve the efficiency and transparency of the state permitting process, and strengthen cybersecurity. (BINJE)

 

Disney names parks boss Josh D’Amaro as CEO to succeed Bob Iger

Disney has named Josh D’Amaro, chairman of Disney Experiences, as its next CEO, succeeding Bob Iger and clinching a closely watched succession race at the Mouse House. Investors, industry insiders and onlookers have long awaited the announcement of who will take over as the next leader of one of the most storied U.S. companies. D’Amaro’s appointment will be effective as of March 18 at Disney’s annual meeting. Iger will serve as a senior advisor and Disney board member until he retires from the company on Dec. 31. (CNBC)

 

Kimberly-Clark completes its acquisition of Summit-based Kenvue

Kimberly-Clark has completed its acquisition of Summit-based Kenvue after shareholders at both companies approved the required proposals. Following approvals at each company’s special shareholders meeting, the transaction is expected to close in the second half of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals. (BINJE)

 

Need fresh perspective in 2026? Books every entrepreneur should read.

Entrepreneurship comes with setbacks, growth, and hard‑won success. From strategy to mindset, these 23 books can help entrepreneurs refocus, stay inspired, and grow. (U.S. Chamber of Commerce)

 

ReNew Jersey Business Summit & Expo

NJ's iconic business networking event returns on March 31 & April 1

The ReNew Jersey Business Summit & Expo returns to Harrah’s Atlantic City on March 31 & April 1. The two-day Summit – attended by over 1,000 in 2024 – will feature keynote speakers, timely panel discussions on N.J.’s economic competitiveness, unmatched networking opportunities, and 100 exhibitors showcasing their products and services. The 2026 Summit is especially significant, coming just weeks after N.J. welcomes a new gubernatorial administration. More info and register here. (N.J. Chamber of Commerce)
 

Cornerstone NJ Member News

RWJBarnabas Health unveils 'simulated operating room' for training

RWJBarnabas Health has expanded its training capabilities with the opening of an Operating Room Simulation Lab at The Institute for Nursing Excellence in Livingston. The lab is a meticulous recreation of a modern surgical suite, outfitted with professional surgical lighting, authentic instrumentation, and advanced patient mannequins – allowing nurses to rehearse procedures and manage emergencies in a risk-free setting. (BINJE)

 

Rutgers Nursing School taps NIH investigator as vice dean of research

Leorey Saligan has been named the first vice dean of research at the Rutgers School of Nursing, following his service as a senior investigator at the National Institutes of Health. Saligan, who joined the R.U. nursing school as an adjunct professor in September, has more than 30 years of nursing experience and has advanced health care through clinical trials and translational research at the National Institute of Nursing Research. (ROI-NJ)

 

EY opens applications for 2026 Entrepreneur of the Year program in NJ

EY is accepting applications for its 2026 Entrepreneur of the Year program in New Jersey, inviting founders, CEOs and transformational business leaders to join what the firm calls one of the world’s most influential communities of entrepreneurs. The application window is open through Feb. 27. Entrepreneur of the Year, founded in 1986, is recognized for honoring leaders who demonstrate bold vision, innovation and sustained business performance. The program has celebrated more than 11,000 entrepreneurs across the U.S., and 60 countries. (BINJE)

Cornerstone NJ is a membership program of the New Jersey Chamber of Commerce. 


Business Events

Feb. 26 – Member Networking Breakfast

UMC Foundation, Neptune

Register

 

March 31 & April 1 – ReNew Jersey Business Summit & Expo

Harrah's Atlantic City

More information and register

 

May 18 – NJ Chamber Challenge Cup Golf Outing

Bedens Brook Club, Skillman

More information and register

 

June 11 – NJ Chamber Open House and Reception

New Jersey State Museum, Trenton

More information coming soon


Were you forwarded this newsletter? For more information about the N.J. Chamber, email Patrick.Daily@njchamber.com.

Business Resources

N.J. Economic Development Authority

 

Choose New Jersey 

 

New Jersey Business Action Center

 

U.S. Chamber of Commerce

 

U.S. Small Business Administration

 

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The New Jersey Chamber of Commerce is staying on top the issues important to business. For news media requests, please email Scott Goldstein.

 

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