Economic Liberty
Occupational Licensing

Military Families Licensing Recognition Act 

Breaking Down Barriers to Interstate Mobility for Military Personnel and their Families.

The process of transferring an occupational license from one state to another can be daunting, time-consuming, and frustrating. This is especially true for military service members, who frequently relocate due to deployments. It’s not just the service members who feel the impact; their family members working in licensed occupations also face challenges.

The best approach is for state lawmakers to pass IJ’s Universal Recognition of Occupational Licenses Act. It establishes clear procedures for licensing boards to recognize the qualifications and work experience of all individuals, whether they come from military or civilian backgrounds. Unfortunately, making this a reality isn’t always straightforward. Challenges often emerge due to the excessive influence at state capitols of licensing boards and trade associations.

What Can State Legislators Do?

The Institute for Justice offers legislators the Military Families Licensing Recognition Act.

This model enables service members to swiftly secure an occupational license in their new state, easing their transition into civilian employment. In turn, this aids their shift to civilian life, lessening the risk of unemployment and financial hardship for them and their families.

Military personnel possess specialized skills that can be applied to many civilian occupations. Acknowledging these skills through an expedited licensing procedure benefits states substantially. Such skilled professionals, along with their family members, can make meaningful contributions to essential sectors like healthcare, engineering, and emergency services.

For legislators, recognizing credentials that military service establishes often serves as a stepping stone towards achieving universal recognition. IJ’s legislative team is available to support subsequent reform efforts by state legislators.