New Hampshire House Bill HB594

New Hampshire 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/12/23
• Refer: 1/12/23
• Report Pass: 3/6/23
• Engrossed: 3/21/23
• Refer: 3/21/23
• Report Pass: 4/20/23
• Report Pass: 5/17/23
• Enrolled: 6/13/23
• Chaptered: 6/29/23
• Passed: 6/29/23

Caption

Relative to the licensure of out-of-state applicants to boards or commissions organized under the office of professional licensure and certification.

Impact

The implementation of HB594 is expected to create a more efficient and responsive licensing framework that promotes professional mobility across state lines. By allowing qualified professionals from other states to secure licenses in New Hampshire, the bill intends to attract a broader talent pool and enhance service delivery in various sectors, including healthcare, education, and skilled trades. However, the bill also mandates that all applicants undergo a criminal history records check, aligning with existing practices for new licensees, which ensures continued oversight and protection for the public.

Summary

House Bill 594 (HB594) seeks to streamline the licensure process for out-of-state applicants wishing to obtain licenses in New Hampshire. The bill enables the Office of Professional Licensure and Certification to issue licenses to professionals who hold a valid license in good standing from another state, provided that the licensing requirements of that state are deemed substantially similar to New Hampshire's. This change aims to facilitate the mobility of professionals, making it easier for them to practice in New Hampshire and potentially addressing workforce shortages in certain sectors.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding HB594 is the potential variation in what constitutes 'substantially similar' licensing requirements between states. This aspect could lead to administrative challenges as the Office of Professional Licensure and Certification navigates the interpretation of such requirements, potentially resulting in discrepancies in licensing decisions. Additionally, the lack of data on the expected number of reciprocal licenses could suggest unpredictability in both state revenues and administrative resources needed to manage the influx of applications. Thus, while the bill aims to improve access to licensure, its practical implications might require close monitoring and adjustment after implementation.