On February 22, 2026, the New Jersey State Legislature made strides to support small businesses in the state by passing a new bill focused on commercial law. The bill, known as the Small Business Protection Act, aims to provide additional legal protections and resources for small businesses facing challenges in the competitive market.One major component of the Small Business Protection Act is the establishment of a Small Business Legal Assistance Program. This program will provide small business owners with access to pro bono legal services to help them navigate legal challenges such as contract disputes, lease agreements, and employment issues. This initiative is aimed at leveling the playing field for small businesses who may not have the resources to hire expensive legal representation.In addition to the legal assistance program, the bill includes provisions for enhanced consumer protection measures. Small businesses will benefit from increased transparency requirements for larger corporations, ensuring fair practices and competition in the marketplace. The bill also includes provisions to crack down on fraudulent business practices, providing small businesses with more tools to protect themselves from dishonest competitors.The Small Business Protection Act has received widespread support from small business owners and industry advocates across the state. Assemblyman John Smith, a key sponsor of the bill, stated, "Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, and they deserve strong legal protections to help them thrive. This bill is a step in the right direction to ensure that small businesses have the resources they need to succeed in a competitive market."The passage of the Small Business Protection Act marks a significant win for small businesses in New Jersey, as they now have additional legal resources and protections to support their growth and success. The bill is set to go into effect later this year, providing much-needed support for small businesses in the state.