This bill allows certified nurse aides (CNAs) to be employed as personal care assistants in licensed health care facilities. It specifically states that a health care facility, licensed under New Jersey law, may employ a certified or conditionally certified nurse aide in this capacity. The intent behind this legislation is to recognize the critical role CNAs play in caring for vulnerable older adults, especially in light of the challenges they faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, which exacerbated stress and burnout among these caregivers.

Additionally, the bill emphasizes the importance of fair compensation, asserting that CNAs working as personal care assistants should receive the same wages as they would in their traditional roles. This measure aims to address the emotional and physical toll that the pandemic has taken on CNAs, acknowledging their dedication and the unique challenges they encounter in providing care to residents in long-term care facilities. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.