The New Jersey Business & Industry Association (NJBIA) has raised concerns over delays in the issuance of professional licenses by the state Division of Consumer Affairs. These delays are affecting over 720,000 individuals and businesses regulated by 51 professional and occupational boards and committees in New Jersey.
Althea D. Ford, Vice President of NJBIA, addressed the Assembly Regulated Professions Committee to highlight the frustrations faced by the business community regarding these licensing delays. The issue is particularly pressing for industries experiencing workforce shortages such as healthcare and social work.
“Since 2022, NJBIA and a coalition of groups representing the licensed community have engaged with the Division and communicated the systemic challenges professionals face when dealing with the Division,” Ford stated in her written testimony.
She further expressed concern about "the continued delays in processing licenses and adjudicating complaints," as well as "the lack of training and familiarity of board staff with the professions they support, and the dismal experience with outdated or inefficient IT systems."
Ford emphasized that these issues impact job creators' ability to fill critical positions, as potential licensees may seek other employment if their licenses are not processed timely. She noted that while there is significant revenue from licensure fees, it does not translate into efficient service delivery.
NJBIA appreciates that lawmakers are considering these operational issues within the professional boards. “It is important to obtain the Division’s perspective on this very real and palpable issue for the licensed community," she remarked. Ford hopes for more transparency from the Division regarding its analysis of board operations and strategies to mitigate these delays.
“To our knowledge, this information is currently not shared with stakeholders, including the Legislature," she added, suggesting that sharing such insights could help address concerns from those impacted by licensing inefficiencies.
