Bill > S0706

This bill amends South Carolina's engineering licensure requirements to create a more flexible pathway for individuals to become licensed professional engineers, particularly those without traditional four-year engineering degrees. The legislation allows qualified individuals with substantial field and design experience to obtain engineering licensure by introducing a new option for certification that includes passing rigorous national examinations and demonstrating professional competence. Specifically, the bill permits applicants without a formal engineering degree to become licensed after completing eight years of progressive engineering experience and passing the NCEES (National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying) Fundamentals of Engineering examination. Additionally, the bill mandates that all licensure applicants pass a new Public Safety and Professional Ethics Examination to ensure they understand their professional responsibilities. The South Carolina Board of Registration for Professional Engineers and Surveyors will continue to oversee applicant review, verify experience, and enforce professional standards. The bill aims to address workforce shortages in infrastructure sectors by removing degree-only barriers while maintaining high standards of public protection through comprehensive examination and experience requirements.

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https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=0706&session=126&summary=B