Kean’s Bill Cutting Red Tape to Help Military Spouses Resume Careers Advances

Senate Republican Leader Tom Kean’s legislation to make it easier for military spouses to resume their careers after relocating to New Jersey has been approved by the Senate Commerce Committee.

“During these difficult times, the spouses of the brave men and women of our military should not have to go through unnecessary red tape to secure long-term employment after relocating to New Jersey,” said Kean (R-21). “This bill will give more flexibility to state licensing boards, and will allow otherwise qualified individuals to continue to practice their profession—as long as their spouses, who are in the military, are stationed in our state.”

Kean’s bill, S-279, would extend the initial period of courtesy certification and require each licensing or certification board to establish an expedited licensing process for the issuance of temporary courtesy licenses.

Under current law, temporary state certificates—such as a teaching certificate—may be granted to an individual who is married to an active duty member of the military and has been transferred to New Jersey. Once the temporary license expires, the individual must enroll in a New Jersey state licensing program.

“Under this legislation, nurses, teachers, and other professionals who are already licensed or certified by another state will be able to easily resume their career in New Jersey,” added Kean. “This will make transitioning to a new life in our state much easier for military families.”