Bill > HB2001

This bill establishes the Universal Professional and Occupational Licensing Act of 2025, which creates a streamlined process for professionals and workers to obtain licensing in West Virginia when they have existing credentials from another state. The bill requires state licensing boards to issue licenses without additional examination to individuals who either establish residence in West Virginia or are married to active-duty military members stationed in the state. To qualify, applicants must have a current, good-standing professional license in another state for at least one year, have met the original state's education and experience requirements, passed any required examinations, and have no history of license revocation or serious disciplinary actions. The bill includes several important provisions: boards can require a state-specific law examination, the new license is subject to West Virginia regulations, and the license is valid only in West Virginia. Notably, the law does not apply to legal practitioners or certain background investigation requirements. Starting July 1, 2025, licensing boards must track and report application information quarterly. The goal is to make it easier for professionals to transfer their credentials across state lines, particularly for military families and newly relocated workers, while still maintaining professional standards and public safety.

Government Affairs

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=2001&year=2025&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill