The bill proposes that New Jersey join the Social Work Licensure Compact, which aims to streamline the interstate practice of regulated social workers. This compact is designed to enhance public access to social work services, reduce the need for multiple licenses, and support military families. It allows for the mutual recognition of licenses among member states, promotes cooperation in regulating multistate practice, and facilitates the exchange of licensure and disciplinary information. The bill outlines specific eligibility requirements for social workers seeking a multistate license, including holding an unencumbered license in their home state and passing a qualifying national exam. It also preserves the authority of member states to enforce their own laws while allowing for the issuance of multistate licenses.
Additionally, the bill establishes the Social Work Licensure Compact Commission to oversee the compact's implementation, detailing its responsibilities, including the management of adverse actions against multistate licensees and the development of a coordinated data system for tracking licenses. The commission will have the authority to create rules, manage finances, and conduct investigations, while ensuring the rights of licensees are protected. The bill emphasizes the importance of cooperation among member states and includes provisions for the compact's severability, ensuring that if any part is deemed unconstitutional, the remaining provisions remain valid. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.