A 1647 New Jersey General Assembly · 2026-2027 Regular Session

Restricts use of restrictive employment covenants for physicians and nurses.

This New Jersey bill (A1647) invalidates most geographic restrictions that prevent physicians from practicing medicine in a specific area after leaving a job. It directly affects physicians by making non-compete clauses in employment contracts unenforceable, unless specific exceptions apply. Key exceptions include restrictions for large hospital systems (30+ physicians), federally qualified health centers (5-mile radius for up to 4 years), or when a "unique incentive" (like a $50,000 bonus) was clearly stated in the contract. The law applies immediately to new employment contracts and does not void other non-restrictive contract terms.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Jan 2026
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Jan 13, 2026 Last action Jan 13, 2026
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1
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Jan 13, 2026
Introduced
Introduced, Referred to Assembly Health Committee
lower
1 primary · 1 co-sponsor

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