Bill > SB2395

This bill creates a new chapter in North Dakota law to streamline professional licensing and improve board operations, focusing primarily on universal licensure for out-of-state professionals. The bill defines key terms like "board" (a state agency regulating a profession) and establishes a process for out-of-state licensees to more easily obtain North Dakota licenses. Under the new law, a board must issue a license to an out-of-state professional who has actively used their license for two of the last three years, demonstrates professional competency, has no disciplinary history, is not under investigation, and passes a background check. The bill mandates that boards issue routine, complete licenses within ten business days, allow electronic application forms, and potentially grant provisional licenses between board meetings. Additionally, the legislation requires boards to annually review interstate professional compacts, allows boards to contract for administrative services, provides flexibility for continuing education, and establishes a process for applicants to resolve licensing disputes, including the ability to contact the governor's office if issues cannot be resolved with the licensing board. The overall goal appears to be reducing barriers to professional licensing and increasing workforce mobility.