ASSEMBLY MILITARY AND VETERANS' AFFAIRS COMMITTEE

STATEMENT TO

ASSEMBLY, No. 936

STATE OF NEW JERSEY

DATED:  MARCH 16, 2026

      The Assembly Military and Veterans' Affairs Committee reports favorably Assembly Bill No. 936.

      This bill provides that the professional and occupational licensing boards in the Division of Consumer Affairs in the Department of Law and Public Safety will not charge a fee for an initial application and issuance of a license, certificate of registration, or certificate to a veteran or the veteran’s spouse, domestic partner, or civil union partner if that individual resides in New Jersey and is seeking issuance of a credential on the basis of reciprocity.  In each such instance, the board has determined that the veteran, spouse, or partner holds a current license to practice the profession or occupation in another jurisdiction with licensure requirements that are equivalent, or substantially equivalent, to those adopted by the board.

      The bill defines “veteran” as a person who received an honorable discharge at any time from a branch of the active or reserve component of the Armed Forces of the United States or the National Guard of any state.

      This bill was prefiled for introduction in the 2026-2027 session pending technical review.  As reported, the bill includes the changes required by technical review, which has been performed.