The bill aims to enhance the nursing workforce in New Jersey through various initiatives, including the establishment of a residency program for licensed practical nurses and registered professional nurses, which will receive financial and technical support from the New Jersey Collaborating Center for Nursing (NJCCN). An advisory committee will be formed to oversee the program's implementation, while oversight of certified nurse aides will be transferred from the Department of Health to the Board of Nursing. The legislation allocates $26.7 million to support these initiatives and introduces the Nurse Workplace Environment and Staffing Council in hospitals to ensure nurses have a voice in creating healthy work environments. Additionally, the bill establishes the Nursing School Expansion Grant Program and the New Jersey Nursing Emotional Well-Being Institute (NJ-NEW) to promote mental health among nurses and their families.

Furthermore, the bill mandates the New Jersey Board of Nursing to conduct surveys for various healthcare professionals as a condition for licensure and certification, aiming to improve workforce data. It amends existing laws regarding the certification of personal care assistants and nurse aides, emphasizing the need for thorough criminal history background checks and establishing a process for handling disqualifications. The bill also introduces a gross income tax credit for preceptors supervising nursing students and appropriates funds to support nursing education programs. Overall, the legislation seeks to improve working conditions, support systems, and the overall supply of nursing professionals in New Jersey.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 18A:65-92, 18A:65-92.1, 45:11-27.1, 26:2H-12.2, 26:2H-83, 26:2H-84, 26:2H-85, 45:1-28, 52:27D-407, 53:1-20.9, 26:2H-87.1