Miller's Op-Ed: Establishing a New Jersey Government Restructuring and Modernization Commission

As New Jersey confronts a structural budget deficit, the potential loss of critical federal funding, the election of a new governor, a reshaped Legislature, and rapid shifts in technology and governance, it’s clear we’ve reached a pivotal moment. Now more than ever, our state must engage in open and honest conversations about the future of government—how our departments and agencies operate, what our state workforce looks like, and the bold decisions required to build a more effective, responsive, and sustainable public sector.

That’s why I’m proud to introduce two key pieces of legislation: Assembly Bill 5849, which would establish the New Jersey Government Restructuring and Modernization Commission, and Assembly Bill 5853, which would create the New Jersey Regulatory Modernization Commission. Together, these commissions would take a collaborative, bipartisan approach to evaluating the structure and performance of state agencies—bringing together experts, stakeholders, and public servants to identify inefficiencies, streamline operations, and modernize outdated systems. The goal is clear: to build a government that is more fiscally responsible, transparent, and responsive to the needs of New Jersey residents.

Specifically, bill A5849 would create a bipartisan, solutions-driven commission charged with reviewing the structure and operations of New Jersey’s executive branch departments and agencies. Its mission is to identify reforms that enhance efficiency, improve transparency, and strengthen accountability. Most importantly, this would not authorize layoffs or forced workforce reductions. Instead, any recommended changes would be implemented through natural attrition, retirements, and the thoughtful reallocation of personnel. This approach ensures that the reforms proposed are both fiscally responsible and humane, while also preserving the integrity of public services and respecting the careers of dedicated state employees. The commission would bring together key individuals and public servants who understand the inner workings of government to challenge outdated models and offer forward-thinking solutions.

With bill A5853, it would establish the advisory New Jersey Regulatory Modernization Commission to evaluate how existing rules and regulations impact economic development and public trust in government. The commission’s charge is clear: identify and recommend reforms to streamline or eliminate outdated, duplicative, or unnecessarily burdensome regulations—without compromising public health, safety, or environmental protections. Time and again, we’ve heard from businesses across New Jersey that our regulatory processes are cumbersome, outdated, and a barrier to economic growth. To ensure transparency and real public engagement, the bill also calls for the creation of a digital “Red Tape Reduction Portal,” allowing residents, businesses, and stakeholders to directly submit regulatory concerns and ideas for reform. It’s time we empower our communities and businesses to help shape a smarter, more responsive regulatory environment—one that supports innovation and job creation in the 21st century economy.

Consider me an old-school believer and optimist, but I’ve always felt that government can be a real force for good, whether it’s improving people’s lives, providing accessible services, supporting a strong business climate, or tackling challenges head-on. That’s why this legislation is so important. We have a real chance to rethink how government works and make it more responsive, more transparent, more accountable, and more prepared for the future. With all the uncertainty we’re facing and the concerns about federal funding drying up, and a growing structural budget deficit, we can’t keep doing business as usual. If we don’t have honest conversations and start making serious changes, taxpayers are going to keep paying the price through high taxes and outdated services. I understand that this legislation may or may not move forward, but sometimes the most important thing is starting the conversation. And that conversation starts now.