ASSEMBLY APPROPRIATIONS COMMITTEE

STATEMENT TO

ASSEMBLY, No. 2308

STATE OF NEW JERSEY

DATED:  OCTOBER 26, 2020

      The Assembly Appropriations Committee reports favorably Assembly Bill No. 2308.

      This bill clarifies current State policy requiring an individual to list a legal name on an application when initially applying for or renewing, reactivating, or reinstating a professional or occupational license, certificate of registration, or certificate.

      The bill requires applications for a professional and occupational license, certificate of registration, or certificate to include a line allowing an individual to list a professional name, a line for the individual to list a legal name, if different from the professional name, and the ability for the individual to choose which name is to appear on the license, certificate of registration, or certificate.

      This bill allows individuals who practice a specific profession or occupation by one name to retain that name should the individual’s legal name change. Allowing an individual who has built a business under one name to continue using it even if the surname of the individual legally changes will prevent confusion among consumers who are clients of that individual. It will also allow the individual to forgo any additional costs required to obtain an updated license, certificate of registration, or certification, and to update any business website, advertising, or marketing.

FISCAL IMPACT:

      This bill is not certified as requiring a fiscal note.