The "Certified Medication Aide in Nursing Homes Staffing Support Act" aims to alleviate staffing shortages in New Jersey's nursing homes by allowing certified medication aides to administer medications to residents, a practice already permitted in 38 other states. The bill addresses the challenges of recruiting and retaining qualified staff, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, by relieving the burden on existing direct care staff and enhancing the quality of care for nursing home residents. It also amends existing laws related to the certification processes for nurse aides, personal care assistants, and medication aides, including the introduction of criminal history background checks and provisions for conditional certifications.

Key provisions of the bill include the requirement for individuals to complete a training course and pass a standardized examination to obtain medication aide certification, which is valid for two years and requires continuing education for renewal. The bill establishes a registry for certified medication aides and outlines the circumstances under which their certification may be suspended or revoked. Additionally, it transfers the authority to adopt necessary regulations from the Commissioner of Law and Public Safety to the Attorney General and the Commissioner of Human Services, ensuring a more streamlined regulatory process. Overall, the act seeks to enhance the qualifications and oversight of healthcare professionals in New Jersey while ensuring the safety and well-being of nursing home residents.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 26:2H-83, 26:2H-84, 26:2H-85, 53:1-20.9, 45:1-28, 26:2H-12.2, 26:2H-12.96