New Jersey Senate Bill S3151

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 10/3/22
• Refer: 10/3/22
• Report Pass: 11/7/22
• Refer: 11/7/22

Caption

Waives certain professional and occupational licensing fees for veterans and spouses of veterans.

Impact

The bill directly impacts state laws by modifying the provisions related to licensing fees for professional and occupational boards. It mandates that boards refrain from charging initial application and issuance fees for licenses to veterans and their spouses who already hold a valid license from another jurisdiction with equivalent requirements. This change is expected to lower financial barriers for veterans, allowing them to more easily enter the workforce in regulated professions.

Summary

Senate Bill S3151, introduced in New Jersey, aims to waive certain professional and occupational licensing fees for veterans and their spouses. This legislation responds to the challenges faced by veterans transitioning to civilian careers, acknowledging their service and the barriers they encounter when obtaining necessary licenses. By eliminating these fees, S3151 seeks to encourage the employment of veterans in various professional fields and make the transition smoother for those who have served in the military.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding S3151 appears to be positive, especially among veteran advocacy groups and supporters of military families. The bill is viewed as a meaningful step towards acknowledging the sacrifices of veterans and facilitating their reintegration into civilian life. However, there may be some concerns regarding the potential impact on state revenue from licensing fees and whether this approach adequately addresses the broader challenges veterans face in employment.

Contention

Notable points of contention around S3151 might arise from discussions on how the implementation of this bill will affect state licensing boards' operational budgets and the fairness of fee waivers across different professions. While eliminating fees for veterans is generally supported, some stakeholders may argue about the need to ensure that this does not devalue the licensing process or burden other applicants with increased costs.