The bill enacts the Social Work Licensure Compact in New Jersey, allowing the state to join other jurisdictions in facilitating the interstate practice of regulated social workers. This compact aims to improve public access to social work services, reduce duplicative licensing requirements, and enhance public health and safety, particularly for military families. It establishes a framework for mutual recognition of licenses among member states, enabling social workers to practice across state lines while adhering to local laws. The bill outlines the requirements for obtaining a multistate license, including holding an active license in the home state, passing a national exam, and meeting continuing education requirements. It also preserves the authority of member states to regulate social work practice and take adverse actions against licenses.

Additionally, the bill establishes a Social Work Licensure Compact Commission to oversee the administration of the compact, manage finances, and create rules. The commission will consist of delegates from each member state and will have the authority to conduct joint investigations and take adverse actions against multistate licenses. The bill includes provisions for liability protections for commission members and emphasizes that the compact does not waive state action immunity or sovereign immunity for member states. It mandates the development of a coordinated data system for managing multistate licenses and outlines the rulemaking process, oversight mechanisms, and procedures for member states to withdraw from the compact. The act is set to take effect immediately upon approval, which occurred on May 8, 2025.