Clarifies that any State entity that issues professional or occupational licenses will not require individuals to demonstrate lawful presence in New Jersey to obtain professional or occupational licensure.

This bill (A2496) clarifies that New Jersey state entities issuing professional or occupational licenses (such as for nurses, contractors, or cosmetologists) cannot require applicants to prove lawful presence in the U.S. or New Jersey to obtain a license. It amends existing law (P.L.2020, c.75) to explicitly state that lawful presence is not a requirement for licensure, while maintaining all other standard eligibility criteria. The law applies to all state departments, agencies, and entities regulating professions or occupations. It takes effect immediately upon passage.