N.J. Gov. Signs Spanish-Language Exam Bill

New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie signed into law A-4144/S-2755 on Nov. 9. The law will take effect on May 7, 2016, 180 days after the governor’s signing.

The new law amends the “N.J. Insurance Producer Licensing Act of 2001” to require the commissioner of New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance (DOBI) to ensure that the insurance producer licensing exam and registration materials for the exam are offered in English and Spanish.

It also requires the commissioner to make available to approved insurance education providers, instructional materials in Spanish, suitable for use as a course curriculum for preparation for the exam.

The Professional Insurance Agents of New Jersey (PIANJ), a trade group for independent agents, congratulated Christie for signing the bill. “The new requirement to offer these materials in English and Spanish will benefit insurance producers as they and their clients continue to come from diverse backgrounds and grow the insurance industry,” said PIANJ President Charles Caruso.