Mississippi House Bill HB176

Mississippi 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/4/23
• Refer: 1/4/23
• Failed: 1/31/23

Caption

Military education credits and certifications; require IHL, MCCB and SWIB to develop policy for acceptance of toward academic credit.

Impact

The bill has significant implications for state laws as it amends existing regulations concerning occupational licensing. It requires the rapid acceptance of military training and education credits toward licensure, thereby reducing barriers that veterans often face when transitioning into civilian occupations. The law aims to expedite the issuance of licenses for active duty members and ensures that military families can have their service-related educational credits acknowledged by postsecondary institutions. Moreover, it includes a provision that creates a statewide policy for accepting academic credits for military qualifications.

Summary

House Bill 176 is designed to streamline the process by which military members, veterans, and their families can obtain occupational licenses and certifications in Mississippi. The bill mandates that the State Workforce Investment Board and applicable occupational licensing boards recognize military education, training, and service as valid credentials, enabling easier access to licensure requirements in various professions. This effort aims to facilitate the integration of military personnel into the civilian workforce by acknowledging their skills and experiences gained through military service.

Contention

While the primary intention of HB 176 is to support military personnel and their families, there may be some points of contention among stakeholders regarding the adequacy and flexibility of the assessment criteria for equivalency of military training when compared to state standards. Some critics may argue that there needs to be a careful evaluation to prevent the dilution of professional standards in regulated occupations. Additionally, the preemption clause included in the bill, which states that it supersedes any local ordinances concerning licensing, might raise concerns about local governance and control in areas related to public safety and professional qualifications.