New Jersey Senate Bill S993

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Provides for DCA to reestablish and administer certification program for recreation administrators and automatically reinstate administrator certifications issued under prior law.

Impact

The bill's reinstatement of a certification program emphasizes the importance of qualified professionals in recreation administration, who are seen as essential for the effective delivery of programs aimed at diverse community groups, including at-risk youth, seniors, and individuals with special needs. By creating a structure that validates the qualifications of recreation administrators, the state seeks to enhance the quality of services provided to these populations, contributing to their overall well-being and development.

Summary

Senate Bill S993 aims to reestablish a certification program for recreation administrators in New Jersey, which was previously administered by the New Jersey Board of Recreation Examiners until its dissolution in 2013. The bill mandates the Department of Community Affairs (DCA) to reinitiate this program within 180 days of the bill's effective date. The reestablished program serves to enhance the professionalism and competency of individuals overseeing recreation programs across state and local governmental agencies, thereby ensuring higher standards in recreational services.

Contention

One notable point of contention may arise regarding the bill's provision for the automatic reinstatement of certifications for previously certified recreation administrators. This clause could be seen as beneficial for affected individuals, allowing them to reacquire their credentials without undergoing a complete re-evaluation process. However, the bill does not provide for a separate certification for recreation supervisors, which may lead to concerns about the professional standing of individuals in that role. Furthermore, the impact of requiring continuing education credits for renewal every two years could place additional financial and time burdens on existing recreation administrators.