New Jersey Assembly Bill A1665

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Authorizes temporary licensure of graduated nursing students; waives fees for nurse licensure applicants who work at long-term care facilities.

Impact

Should A1665 be enacted, it will amend existing provisions set forth in P.L.1947, c.262 related to nurse licensure in New Jersey. The bill stipulates that while the temporary license is valid, nursing students are expected to initiate the licensing process for full accreditation, including taking the necessary examinations and background checks. This approach aims to ease the transition for new graduates into the nursing profession by allowing them to apply their skills in practical settings sooner, thereby alleviating some of the pressure on healthcare facilities amid ongoing staff shortages.

Summary

Assembly Bill A1665 introduces a framework for granting temporary nursing licenses to graduates of accredited nursing programs who have not yet reached full licensure as either a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Registered Nurse (RN). The primary goal of the bill is to facilitate the entry of newly graduated nursing students into the healthcare workforce, addressing the immediate demand for nursing staff, particularly in long-term care facilities. Under this proposed law, applicants can obtain a temporary license valid for one year, allowing them to begin practicing under the supervision of a licensed RN.

Contention

Despite the potential benefits highlighted by supporters, the bill does raise concerns regarding the supervision of temporarily licensed nurses. Opponents might argue that while this allows for immediate workforce enhancement, it may lead to situations where less experienced practitioners are deployed without sufficient oversight, increasing the risk of patient care issues. Legislation around the support and training provided to newly licensed nurses would be crucial in addressing these concerns. Furthermore, the waiving of licensing fees for applicants employed in long-term care facilities could be a point of contention, raising questions about resource allocation within the state's nursing boards.