New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S3939

Introduced
6/8/23  
Refer
6/8/23  

Caption

Requires calculation of national average time needed to approve applications for initial credential in profession or occupation and use of average time as standard in New Jersey.

Impact

The legislation will fundamentally alter how professional boards in New Jersey handle credential approvals. By mandating the use of a national average as a performance target, the bill aims to enhance accountability among licensing boards, ensuring they process applications in a timely manner consistent with their counterparts in other states. This could significantly impact the licensure experience for applicants, potentially reducing wait times and fostering better access to professional opportunities.

Summary

S3939, introduced in the New Jersey Senate, seeks to standardize the approval process for initial professional and occupational credentials by requiring the calculation of the national average time taken to approve applications in various states. The essence of the bill is to improve efficiency in processing applications for credentials across different professions by establishing a benchmark derived from nationwide data. Under the proposed law, boards that regulate various professions in New Jersey will gather this data and utilize it as a standard to streamline their own processes.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding S3939 appears to be positive among supporters who argue that the bill will facilitate a much-needed reform in the credentialing process. Advocates emphasize the advantages of increased efficiency and transparency, which they argue could lead to a more favorable business environment. However, there are concerns about the practical implications of implementing such standardized timelines, especially if they do not account for unique local considerations or challenges faced by specific professions.

Contention

Some points of contention may arise from the feasibility and adaptability of applying a national average to diverse professions with varying complexities in their credentialing processes. Stakeholders worry that rigid timelines might force boards to rush approvals, potentially overlooking essential evaluations necessary for maintaining high professional standards. Additionally, there is a discussion around the financial implications related to hiring third-party experts when boards fail to meet the established averages, raising questions about resource allocation within the licensing authorities.

Companion Bills

NJ A5283

Same As Requires calculation of national average time needed to approve applications for initial credential in profession or occupation and use of average time as standard in New Jersey.

Previously Filed As

NJ A5283

Requires calculation of national average time needed to approve applications for initial credential in profession or occupation and use of average time as standard in New Jersey.

NJ S1480

Requires calculation of national average time needed to approve applications for initial credential in profession or occupation and use of average time as standard in New Jersey.

NJ A2361

Requires calculation of national average time needed to approve applications for initial credential in profession or occupation and use of average time as standard in New Jersey.

NJ A4621

Requires issuance of report on certain information and data on processing of applications for professional and occupational licenses and mandates review of training and call intake in Division of Consumer Affairs.

NJ S3156

Requires issuance of report on certain information and data on processing of applications for professional and occupational licenses and mandates review of training and call intake in Division of Consumer Affairs.

NJ A2805

Requires issuance of report on certain information and data on processing of applications for professional and occupational licenses and mandates review of training and call intake in Division of Consumer Affairs.

NJ S3594

Establishes timelines for application review process for certain credentials issued by New Jersey Board of Nursing.

NJ HB1460

Professional and occupational licensing.

NJ S1761

Requires issuance of report on certain information and data on processing of applications for professional and occupational licenses and mandates review of training and call intake in Division of Consumer Affairs.

NJ A1449

Requires certain standards for professional and occupational boards considering applicants with criminal history records.

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