New Jersey finalized an agreement to partner with 33 other states throughout the country in a multi-state nursing licensing compact in July of 2019. This compact allows nurses from other participating states to practice in New Jersey without receiving a New Jersey specific nursing license and vice versa.
Why the need for a multi-state nursing licensing compact?
The United States is a country composed of separate states each with their own laws, rules and regulations. Lawmakers in each state have put restrictions on certain professions. Most within the medical field are subject to such restrictions. This means certain professionals, like nurses, may need to get a state specific license to practice their profession within different states.
The ability to move from state to state has increased greatly in recent years. As a result, nurses are often moving to different states. Lawmakers can agree to partake in the Nursing Licensure Compact (NLC) to ease the ability of nurses to practice in different states.
Is New York part of this agreement?
Not yet. States generally need to pass legislation to become a part of the agreement. Now, Pennsylvania and Massachusetts have pending legislation. If the proposals continue to move forward these states could soon become part of the NLC.
New York does not yet have such legislation. Those who are against the agreement note it can result in gaps in patient care as nurses are expected to practice in a state where they are unfamiliar with the regulations.
How can nurses practice in New York without it being part of the NLC?
They will likely need to receive a New York specific nursing license. A failure to do so could result in allegations of license violations.