TRENTON, NJ – State Senator Troy Singleton has reintroduced legislation that would provide tax credits to businesses that employ workers under 18, which he says will expand job opportunities for young people in New Jersey by helping to offset the cost of minimum wage increases.

Singleton's bill would permit eligible businesses to apply for refundable tax credits against their corporate business tax or gross income tax based on the hours employees under 18 work. The program would be administered by the Department of Labor and Workforce Development, which would establish guidelines for wage tracking, age verification, and certification of credits.

“For many young people, a first job is more than just a paycheck. It’s an introduction to responsibility, confidence, and long-term career pathways,” said Senator Singleton (D-Burlington), who represents Bordentown in the Legislature. “As we continue to raise the minimum wage, this legislation ensures that businesses can still afford to hire young workers and provide those critical early opportunities.”

Under the legislation, the Commissioner of Labor and Workforce Development would be responsible for implementing recordkeeping standards and creating a system for employers to submit tax credit certifications to the Division of Taxation. The tax credit program would be structured to help employers manage increased labor costs while maintaining access to entry-level positions for teens, supporting small businesses, preserving first-job opportunities, and strengthening the long-term workforce pipeline across New Jersey.

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