Porzio Governmental Affairs (PGA) recognizes and thanks Governor Mikie Sherrill for her recent signing of S2996/A4052, legislation eliminating certain practice restrictions for advanced practice nurses (APNs) and permanently authorizing qualified APNs to practice independently in New Jersey.
The new law formalizes independent practice authority for APNs working in primary and behavioral health care and allows these eligible APNs to prescribe medications without a “joint protocol” or formal agreement with a collaborating physician. The legislation follows six years of a temporary waiver enacted by executive order and ensures continued patient access as New Jersey addresses ongoing workforce shortages in these areas.
PGA represents the Society of Psychiatric Advanced Practice Nurses (SPAPN) and together they led the advocacy efforts that culminated in the bill’s final passage, prior to the expiration of the executive order allowing independent APN practice. Recognizing the extensive and varied APN experience of SPAPN Executive Director Marcel Kaganovskaya, PGA ensured that his unique expertise provided a real-world and clinically sound dimension to the crafting of the amended bill.
PGA credits Senator Joe Vitale, the bill’s long-time primary sponsor, as well as legislative leadership, for their commitment and partnership throughout the process. Senator Vitale serves as the Chair of the Senate Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee.
“Senator Vitale’s steadfast leadership, dedication to the nursing profession and commitment to modernizing New Jersey health care policy were the keys to this outcome,” said Lynn Nowak, PGA executive vice president. “We also appreciate legislative leaders and senior staff in both houses for working diligently to ensure this measure advanced before the expiration of the temporary waiver.”
“This legislation represents an important step forward for protecting patient access to care and recognizing the role highly trained advanced practice nurses play in New Jersey’s health care system,” said PGA Director Jacy Lance. “The law will ensure continued access to primary and behavioral health care for communities throughout New Jersey, including those most in need economically and geographically.” SPAPN has worked for decades to secure passage of the independent APN legislation. “The real turning point came when SPAPN made the decision to bring Porzio Governmental Affairs on as our lobbyist. Lynn and Jacy were exactly the advocates SPAPN needed,” said Louise Gabriele, past president of SPAPN. “They guided us every step of the way, helping us navigate the legislative process and build relationships. Ultimately, their expertise and steady guidance made an enormous difference, but it was truly a team effort. The late-night texts and emails, the constant strategizing, and their unwavering commitment kept the momentum going.”