Initially, efforts of the NJSSPA were concentrated toward obtaining licensure for PAs in New Jersey. These efforts were often met by resistance from both the NJ nursing and medical associations. In 1988, an editorial written by Dave Mittman, PA-C (publisher of the journal Physician Assistant) brought to national attention the plight of PAs in the Garden State. NJSSPA soon found strong support from the AAPA and other PA state organizations. Eventually over 500 PAs from across the nation joined in a march on Trenton to advocate for PA practice in NJ. The day included a parade as well as a rally on the steps of the State House. PAs from over 20 different states attended and perhaps most important PAs finally received the press coverage they needed to sway the legislators. Fifteen years after the foundation of NJSSPA, the culmination of much hard work by so many people resulted in the passing of legislation enabling PAs to practice in New Jersey. NJSSPA efforts are now concentrated on additional practice legislation and public awareness of the PA profession. As New Jersey was one of the last states to allow PAs to practice the barriers that New Jersey's PAs face can be formidable. That is why it is critical that all PAs support their state society.

Most of NJSSPA's subsequent efforts have been directed toward improving the abilities of PAs to care for patients. Again, after much hard work PAs obtained prescriptive authority shortly after initial licensure. In 2005, PAs finally received prescriptive authority for controlled substances.

With two strong PA programs in the state, NJSSPA's membership continues to grow rapidly, and we remain committed to improving conditions for our members and our patients. As we look towards the future, it is the help, support and diligence of the many NJSSPA supporters that will continue to insure the PA profession's ability to provide top-quality care to the citizens of New Jersey.