New Jersey Assembly Bill A482

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22
• Report Pass: 6/9/22
• Engrossed: 6/16/22
• Refer: 6/20/22
• Report Pass: 1/30/23
• Refer: 1/30/23

Caption

Concerns professional licensing and application fees for spouse or dependent of active duty member of United States Armed Forces.

Impact

The implementation of A482 would represent a significant shift in state laws surrounding occupational licensing, promoting a more inclusive approach for military families. The legislation not only eliminates fees for spouses and dependents but also streamlines the application process by requiring occupational boards to provide a designated status indicator on applications. By removing financial barriers, the bill aims to facilitate the employment of qualified military spouses, thereby supporting their economic stability and integration into the community where they are stationed.

Summary

Assembly Bill A482 aims to amend existing legislation concerning professional licensing in New Jersey, specifically addressing fees related to applicants who are spouses or dependents of active-duty members of the United States Armed Forces. Under this bill, no professional or occupational board will charge application fees to these individuals when they seek a license, certificate, or registration to practice their profession. This change is intended to ease the process for military families who often face unique challenges due to their relocation and service commitments.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support for its intent to assist military families, there are potential points of contention surrounding its implementation. Critics may argue that waiving fees could place an additional financial strain on local boards that depend on these revenues to operate effectively. Furthermore, there may be discussions on whether the existing standards for temporary courtesy licenses are sufficient to ensure that all applicants have the requisite credentials and training before being licensed to practice in New Jersey. These issues could lead to debates about funding and regulatory frameworks necessary to support the bill's objectives.