Vitale, Singleton Bill Expanding Practice Authority for Advanced Practice Nurses Signed into Law 

TRENTON – Governor Mikie Sherrill signed into law legislation sponsored by Senators Joe Vitale and Troy Singleton that eliminates certain practice restrictions for advanced practice nurses (APNs), allowing experienced providers to practice independently in primary and behavioral health care settings and improving access to care across New Jersey.

“New Jersey continues to face significant health care workforce challenges, and we need smart, evidence-based solutions to meet growing demand,” said Senator Vitale (D-Middlesex). “Allowing experienced advanced practice nurses providing primary and behavioral health care to continue practicing independently will improve access to care, reduce costs, and maintain the high standards of quality and safety that patients expect.”

“Advanced practice nurses are a critical part of our health care system, and it is time our laws reflect the reality of the care they are already providing,” said Senator Singleton. “By removing unnecessary administrative barriers, this bill will expand access to high-quality care, particularly in underserved communities, and help address ongoing provider shortages across our state.”

New Jersey had previously been classified as a “reduced practice” state, requiring APNs to maintain joint-protocol agreements with physicians to prescribe medications. Under the law, APNs providing primary or behavioral health care with at least 5,000 hours of practice experience will be permitted to prescribe medications without maintaining a joint protocol agreement with a collaborating physician. The law also establishes additional continuing education requirements, mandates medical malpractice coverage, and grants the Board of Nursing explicit authority to address misuse of prescription privileges.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the joint protocol requirement was temporarily waived, allowing APNs to practice independently for several years. This law makes those changes permanent for qualified providers, helping to strengthen the health care workforce, reduce disparities in access, and ensure continuity of care for patients across the state.