Approved New Jersey dining and drinking spots with 100 or fewer workers per location could get winter gear grants

The New Jersey Economic Development Authority would give grants to buy covered outdoor items or repay businesses for them. New Jersey restaurants, dining places, and places serving alcohol on site could apply if they have 100 or fewer workers at a location. Applicants would need agency approval and an agreement with the agency. Each approved business could get no more than $10,000 for barriers, blankets, heaters, and tents used outdoors in bad weather. Recipients would have to show proof of covered purchases while taking part in the program. The requirement to set up the program would take effect immediately if the bill becomes law.

New Jersey would set aside $50 million in federal funds for the Economic Development Authority. The money would pay grants to approved New Jersey dining and drinking spots with 100 or fewer workers per location, as well as program costs. The money would come from federal coronavirus relief funds or another federal source available to New Jersey. The funding provision would take effect immediately if the bill becomes law.