NJ A2207

Authorizes certified medication aides (CMAs) to administer medications to residents in nursing homes licensed under New Jersey law, a practice already permitted in 38 other states and in New Jersey's assisted living facilities.

Addresses nursing home staffing shortages that have persisted since the COVID-19 pandemic by expanding the scope of duties for certified medication aides to reduce burden on existing direct care staff.

Requires medication aides to undergo the same criminal history background checks as nurse aides and personal care assistants, including initial fingerprint-based checks and follow-up checks at least every two years for recertification.

Establishes that the Department of Health will maintain a registry of certified medication aides and will assume the cost of criminal background checks for applicants.

Disqualifies individuals from medication aide certification if convicted of crimes involving danger to persons, offenses against family/children/incompetents, theft, or controlled dangerous substances, with an opportunity to demonstrate rehabilitation.