Senate Passes Pou Coronavirus Relief Bill to Help Expedite Professional and Occupational Licenses

Trenton – Legislation sponsored by Senator Nellie Pou, which would expedite professional and occupational licenses during a public health emergency or state of emergency, passed the Senate today. This bill is a part of the overall Coronavirus relief bill package.

“Across the country we are seeing hospitals struggle to find enough doctors and nurses to care for patients in critical care amidst the coronavirus pandemic,” said Senator Pou (D-Bergen/Essex). “This legislation will make it easier to bring qualified professionals into the state to help residents access the care they need as well as alleviate the strain on our healthcare system as it combats this crisis.”

The bill, A-3862/S-2298, would allow a professional or occupational licensing board to grant licenses, certificates of registration and certifications on an expedited basis to any individual who holds a corresponding license, certificate of registration or certification, during a state of emergency or a public health emergency.

The bill was released from the Senate by a vote of 34-0.