The New Jersey Electronic Security Association (NJESA) announced that it has changed its name to the New Jersey Electronic Life Safety Association (NJELSA) effective immediately. The new name was voted on at the Oct. 17 Membership Meeting during the Central Region Meeting in Union, N.J. 

Along with the new name, a new logo was designed. The basic design of the previous logo was kept for consistency, but was made fresher and more modern with new colors. 

The name and logo were changed for several reasons. Recently, the board of directors of the Electronic Security Association (ESA) voted to sunset the national association´s state chapter program. ESA will have no connection with all the state chapters, including New Jersey. 

“It didn´t seem right to continue as the New Jersey Electronic Security Association since we are no longer connected to national (ESA),” said Chrstine Marzano, president of the NJELSA. “Even though we have a new identity, we will continue to be the same committed association. We’ll keep fighting for our members in the forums that matter most, and we’ll work on providing the best training and benefits in the industry and in New Jersey.”

Since the association is no longer affiliated with ESA, a new dues structure was also put in place. All dues will now go directly to the state association and will allow the state association to grow and focus even more on state and local issues that directly affect members. The new dues structure allows all members to pay the same annual fee of $425 regardless of company type or size.

The new name is more inclusive of telecommunications, locksmiths and others that will be welcomed as members.

The NJELSA is also developing new member benefits including a new healthcare plan. In addition, there will be a new domain name, an updated website and new marketing materials.

“After 50 years of accomplishments, first as the New Jersey Alarm Association, then the New Jersey Burglar & Fire Alarm Association, and recently, the New Jersey Electronic Security Association, our new name, the New Jersey Electronic Life Safety Association, better captures the rising importance of including other industries in the marketplace and paves the way for focusing on the issues that matter most to members in the Garden State,” Marzano said.

The New Jersey Electronic Life Safety Association (NJELSA) represents electronic security professionals, system integrators, fire alarm companies, manufacturers and distributors that do business in New Jersey. Joining the NJELSA opens the pathway to being licensed — a legal requirement in New Jersey for electronic security and fire alarm installers. The NJELSA exists to promote public safety and foster positive relationships with police, fire and elected officials at the local, state and national level.