Sherrill signs law expanding independent practice authority for advanced practice nurses in New Jersey
TRENTON, N.J. — Gov. Mikie Sherrill has signed legislation eliminating certain practice restrictions for advanced practice nurses, allowing qualified providers to deliver care independently in New Jersey.
The law makes permanent the independent practice authority for certain advanced practice nurses (APNs) who provide primary or behavioral health care, as a temporary waiver of joint protocol requirements with physicians was set to expire. The legislation also allows qualifying APNs to prescribe medications without a collaborating physician.
“Today’s bill signing ensures that advanced practice nurses with extensive clinical experience are able to continue independently providing primary and behavioral health care services. At a time when the health care industry is facing significant workforce shortages and when my Administration is focused on driving down costs to consumers, the last thing we need is more barriers to practicing and accessing health care in New Jersey,” said Governor Sherrill. “From youth mental health services to preventative care, taking action to remove these unneeded administrative barriers will help ensure New Jersey residents have access to the high-quality services that they deserve.”
Earlier this year, Sherrill issued an executive order temporarily extending emergency provisions that allowed certain APNs to practice without a joint protocol agreement, providing additional time for lawmakers to enact a permanent solution.
Advanced practice nurses are registered nurses with graduate-level education and specialized clinical training. According to state officials, 27 states currently grant full practice authority to APNs.
