Extends validity of and eliminates issuance fee for temporary instructional certificate issued to military spouse; requires expedited processing of military spouse application for NJ instructional certificate and eliminates fee to obtain certificate.

This bill (A-951) extends the validity of temporary teaching certificates for military spouses relocating to New Jersey from 180 to 365 days, with a possible 365-day extension. It eliminates all fees for both temporary and full teaching certificates, and requires the Department of Education to expedite processing of applications. The bill directly affects nonresident military spouses who hold valid teaching licenses in another state and need to complete New Jersey certification requirements. It ensures these spouses can teach immediately while meeting state standards without financial barriers or delays. The changes apply to certificates issued under existing law (P.L.2013, c.68) and take effect immediately.