New Jersey considers temporary authorization for out-of-state practitioners
New Jersey lawmakers are considering a bill to address the state's growing shortage of healthcare workers by allowing certain out-of-state professionals and recent graduates to practice without final license approval for up to one year. The legislation, approved by the state Senate Commerce Committee and awaiting full Senate consideration, includes roles such as nurses, physicians, counselors, and social workers. The New Jersey State Nurses Association supports the measure, noting it would enable nurses from neighboring non-compact states like Pennsylvania and New York to work in New Jersey. The New Jersey Association of Mental Health and Addiction Agencies believes the proposal could also alleviate shortages of drug and alcohol counselors, therapists, and social workers.