Bill > SB72

This bill modifies regulations for health occupations boards, specifically focusing on English proficiency requirements for licensure in nursing and pharmacy professions. The bill prohibits health occupations boards from requiring additional evidence of English proficiency from applicants who already hold a valid, unrestricted license from another state that already required English proficiency verification. Each health occupations board that requires English proficiency must now prominently display a statement on their website indicating that applicants with licenses from states with English proficiency requirements cannot be asked to provide further proof. For nursing specifically, the bill expands acceptable methods of demonstrating English language competency to include passing an approved English proficiency exam from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and holding a valid multistate license under the Nurse Licensure Compact. The bill also modifies licensure by endorsement procedures for nurses, allowing easier transfer of credentials between states and reducing redundant language competency testing. These changes aim to streamline professional licensing processes and reduce unnecessary barriers for qualified healthcare professionals seeking to practice in Maryland. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0072?ys=2025RS