New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S1298

Introduced
1/9/24  

Caption

Clarifies that any State entity that issues professional or occupational licenses will not require individuals to demonstrate lawful presence in New Jersey to obtain professional or occupational licensure.

Impact

The enactment of S1298 would represent a significant shift in the regulatory landscape of professional licensing in New Jersey. By removing the requirement for lawful presence, the bill enhances access to economic opportunities for individuals who may be undocumented or authorized residents lacking formal documentation. Proponents of the bill argue that this change fosters a more equitable and diverse workforce, potentially boosting local economies by allowing more individuals to participate in the licensed professions. The bill aligns with broader efforts to support workforce development by promoting access to professional qualifications regardless of immigration status.

Summary

Senate Bill 1298 (S1298) seeks to amend existing New Jersey law concerning the requirements for obtaining professional and occupational licenses. The bill specifies that individuals will not need to demonstrate lawful presence in the United States in order to obtain such licenses, provided they meet all other required qualifications. This legislation aims to clarify and streamline the licensure process for various professions within New Jersey, ensuring that licensing entities do not impose additional requirements based on immigration status. This exception encourages inclusivity in professional opportunities across the state.

Contention

However, S1298 has sparked debate among legislators and community groups. Advocates for the bill emphasize its importance to economic equity and workforce inclusivity. In contrast, critics argue that allowing individuals without lawful presence to obtain professional licenses could undermine efforts to enforce immigration laws and might raise concerns among certain voter bases. This contention reflects broader societal discussions regarding immigration policy, the role of undocumented workers, and how best to ensure public safety while fostering economic growth. Overall, discussions surrounding S1298 exemplify the ongoing struggle between inclusivity and regulatory compliance in state governance.

Companion Bills

NJ A2496

Same As Clarifies that any State entity that issues professional or occupational licenses will not require individuals to demonstrate lawful presence in New Jersey to obtain professional or occupational licensure.

NJ S774

Carry Over Clarifies that any State entity that issues professional or occupational licenses will not require individuals to demonstrate lawful presence in New Jersey to obtain professional or occupational licensure.

NJ A2349

Carry Over Clarifies that any State entity that issues professional or occupational licenses will not require individuals to demonstrate lawful presence in New Jersey to obtain professional or occupational licensure.

Previously Filed As

NJ S774

Clarifies that any State entity that issues professional or occupational licenses will not require individuals to demonstrate lawful presence in New Jersey to obtain professional or occupational licensure.

NJ A2496

Clarifies that any State entity that issues professional or occupational licenses will not require individuals to demonstrate lawful presence in New Jersey to obtain professional or occupational licensure.

NJ A2349

Clarifies that any State entity that issues professional or occupational licenses will not require individuals to demonstrate lawful presence in New Jersey to obtain professional or occupational licensure.

NJ HB191

Professional & Occupational Licensure Changes

NJ HB152

Revise laws related to professional and occupational licensure

NJ SB0043

Occupational and Professional Licensing Modifications

NJ HB1460

Professional and occupational licensing.

NJ S3050

Revises requirements and process for temporary courtesy licenses and certificates issued by State Board of Examiners, NJ Board of Nursing, and other professional and occupational licensing boards to nonresident military spouses.

NJ A1027

Revises requirements and process for temporary courtesy licenses and certificates issued by State Board of Examiners, NJ Board of Nursing, and other professional and occupational licensing boards to nonresident military spouses.

NJ A2956

Revises requirements and process for temporary courtesy licenses and certificates issued by State Board of Examiners, NJ Board of Nursing, and other professional and occupational licensing boards to nonresident military spouses.

Similar Bills

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NJ S1425

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MS SB2133

Mississippi Design Professionals Act; enact.

MS SB2217

Mississippi Design Professionals Act; enact.

MI HB4172

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CA SB1024

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MI HB4728

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