Jul. 08, 2022
HARRISBURG – The governor on Thursday signed legislation authored by Rep. Zach Mako (R-Lehigh/Northampton) that helps remove obstacles for employment licensure for military service members, veterans and their spouses.
Act 35 of 2022 makes it easier for service members, veterans and their spouses to obtain and renew state licensure.
“As a member of the National Guard, I understand the struggles and barriers members of the military and their families face due to frequent moves and reacclimating into society after service overseas,” Mako said. “This change will assist them in securing employment in order to help support themselves and their families. I appreciate the unanimous, bipartisan backing this legislation received in the General Assembly.”
More specifically, the law requires the Bureau of Professional and Occupational Affairs and/or licensing boards to:
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Expedite an application for service members, veterans and military spouses and issue an expedited temporary license.
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Update the military occupational codes crosswalk as necessary to accommodate changes in a license or military skill, experience, credentials and education.
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Consider military experience when determining if an applicant meets qualifications.
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Allow for early submission for licensure renewals for military members being deployed to allow them to immediately resume employment upon return.
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Annually issue a report to the Pennsylvania General Assembly oversight committees regarding licensure data for service members, veterans and their spouses and recommend ways to improve the board’s ability to meet licensure needs.
The law takes effect in 120 days.
The 183rd District includes South Whitehall (part), Washington and Whitehall (part) townships and Slatington Borough in Lehigh County. It also consists of Allen, Lehigh and Moore (part) townships, and North Catasauqua, Northampton and Walnutport boroughs in Northampton County.