HB 1008 – Occupational Licensure Endorsement
Authored by Rep. Martin Carbaugh (R-Fort Wayne)

Requires a board that issues a license for certain regulated occupations to issue a license to an individual who: (1) is licensed in another state or jurisdiction in the regulated occupation; (2) has established residency; (3) has passed a substantially equivalent examination as determined by the appropriate board; (4) is and has been in good standing; (5) pays a fee; and (6) completes the licensure application form. Allows for a board that requires an applicant to submit to a national criminal history background check to maintain that requirement even if an individual who applies for a license for a regulated occupation meets all of the license endorsement requirements. Provides that nothing in this bill prevents or supersedes a: (1) compact; or (2) reciprocity or comity agreement; if established by the board or the general assembly. Provides that, if a board has entered into a national reciprocal or endorsement agreement or a reciprocal or endorsement agreement with one or more states, then those agreements remain in effect. Makes a technical correction.

Chamber position: Support

The latest: Late last week, the House Employment, Labor and Pensions Committee passed a slightly amended version of the bill out of committee 9-2. The amendment addressed concerns of several industry associations, which sought clarification that the bill does not supersede any existing reciprocity or industry board-dictated requirements. On January 30, the full House passed HB 1008 by a vote of  85-6. Senator Mark Messmer (R-Jasper) was named as the Senate sponsor, and Sen. Justin Busch (R-Fort Wayne) was tapped as the co-sponsor.

Indiana Chamber action/commentary: The intent of HB 1008 is that Indiana will universally recognize individuals who received their occupational license from other states or countries regardless of whether those jurisdictions recognize Indiana licensees practicing in the same field.

The Chamber supports the amended version of the bill, which excludes certain categories of licenses from universal recognition. Namely, those whose boards have entered into a reciprocity, compact or comity agreement that accomplishes the same intent of the legislation.

Resource: Adam H. Berry at (317) 264-6892 or email: aberry@indianachamber.com