Compact nursing states in the Northeast
The Northeast is the most mixed region in the country for the compact — some states are full members, one big state is out, and one has enacted the law without turning it on. Here is where each stands.
Which Northeast states are compact nursing states?
Some, but not all. As of 2026, states such as Maine, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut (a recent member) are compact. New York is the large non-compact state in the region, and Massachusetts has enacted the compact but has not implemented it — treat it as non-compact until it does. Check the current status of each below.
NLC member states ↗Last reviewed 2026-06-17
Northeast (9)
Status shown as of 2026-06-17. Compact law changes — always confirm with the relevant board of nursing.
Frequently asked questions
No. New York is not a Nurse Licensure Compact state. New York licenses are single-state, and a compact license from another state does not authorize practice in New York.