This bill amends existing New Jersey law to explicitly prohibit unlicensed individuals from using the title "Nurse" or any related abbreviations, such as "R.N." for registered nurses and "L.P.N." for licensed practical nurses. The amendments clarify that only those who hold an effective, unsuspended license as a professional nurse or practical nurse under P.L.1947, c.262 (C.45:11-23 et seq.) or as an advanced practice nurse under P.L.1991, c.377 (C.45:11-45 et al.) are permitted to use these titles. The bill also reinforces penalties for violations, establishing a fine of $200 for initial offenses and $500 for subsequent violations.

Additionally, the bill ensures that the use of the title "advanced practice nurse" and its abbreviations is restricted to those certified under the relevant sections of P.L.1991, c.377. It aims to protect the integrity of nursing professions by preventing misrepresentation and ensuring that only qualified individuals can claim these professional titles. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 45:11-37, 45:11-46