TRENTON – New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy Jan. 12 signed into law two bills sponsored by District 2 Legislator Sen. Vince Polistina (R-2).
The bill, S-196/A3099, allows chiropractic students to get hands-on experience before graduation to strengthen clinical skills, improve patient outcomes and ensure a smooth transition to employment.
“Today’s bill signing will allow chiropractic students to do real-world work under licensed chiropractors, giving them invaluable experience to strengthen their clinical skills,” Polistina said. “The preceptor program will help students learn directly from medical professionals, improving patient safety and supporting a smoother transition into the workforce. By becoming more comfortable with your surroundings in a clinical setting before graduation, students would be more likely to stay in New Jersey and build their careers here.”
The bill was co-sponsored in the Assembly by District 2 Assemblyman Don Guardian and others.
The bill also requires the Board of Chiropractic Examiners to allow students in their final year of chiropractic medicine to participate in a preceptorship under the direct supervision of a board approved New Jersey-licensed chiropractor. Students must undergo a criminal background check and apply for a limited license to participate in a preceptorship.
The governor also signed legislation sponsored by Polistina that addresses the concerning shortage of qualified air traffic controllers by creating a student loan redemption program.
The bill, S-4432/A-5712, establishes an aviation education grant program to support drone training initiatives, aviation degree development, participation in FAA training programs, and related research.
“Our nation is facing a serious shortage of qualified air traffic controllers that threatens safety, efficiency, and the reliability of our airspace,” the senator said. “The student loan-redemption program will help remove a major financial barrier for those who are willing to step up and serve. We’re making a commonsense investment in the next generation of air traffic controllers which will strengthen aviation safety and support a workforce that is absolutely essential to our economy.”
