Advanced Practice Nurses Can Practice with Fewer Restrictions Under New Jersey Law
TRENTON, NJ – Mikie Sherrill has signed new legislation eliminating certain practice restrictions for advanced practice nurses (APNs) in New Jersey, marking a significant shift in how primary and behavioral health care services can be delivered across the state.
The legislation makes permanent the independent practice authority for qualified APNs, allowing them to continue providing care without the previously required joint protocol agreements with collaborating physicians. It also permits eligible APNs to prescribe medications independently.
State officials said the move comes at a time when the health care system continues to face workforce shortages and increasing demand for accessible services.
“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,” Sherrill said in a statement. “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.”
She added that removing administrative hurdles would improve access to care across a range of services, including youth mental health and preventative care.
Earlier this year, Sherrill signed Executive Order No. 13 to temporarily extend provisions originally put in place during the COVID-19 public health emergency under Phil Murphy’s Executive Order No. 103 in 2020. That extension, which lasted 45 days beyond its February 2026 expiration, allowed lawmakers time to finalize a permanent solution.
Advanced practice nurses are registered nurses who hold graduate-level education and advanced clinical training. According to state officials, 27 states currently grant full practice authority to APNs.
The newly signed legislation, S2996/A4052, was sponsored by Senators Joseph Vitale and Troy Singleton, along with Assembly members Shanique Spearman, Daniel Brennan, and Annette Quijano.
Supporters say the law is expected to expand access to care, particularly in underserved communities, while helping reduce delays and administrative burdens within the health care system.