Legislation sponsored by Senator Bob Singer (R-Lakewood) requiring criminal background checks for individuals seeking licensure from certain health care boards was signed into law today by Governor Murphy.

“The enactment of this law strengthens our efforts to protect patients while maintaining the highest standards within our health care system,” Singer said in a statement.

“Requiring more licensed health care professionals to undergo background checks ensures that we have qualified and trustworthy individuals providing care to patients.”

The bill expands the definition of health care professionals to include those licensed by the State Board of Applied Behavior Analyst Examiners, the State Board of Creative Arts and Activities Therapies, and the State Board of Dietetics and Nutrition. These professionals will now be required to undergo criminal background checks as part of the licensure or renewal process.

The requisite board or the Division of Consumer Affairs may revoke or deny the renewal of a license if an individual has a criminal record.