The bill amends Alaska's professional licensing laws by introducing a new section for temporary licenses under AS 08.01.061. This allows the Department to issue temporary licenses to applicants who are either licensed in another state with equivalent requirements or who qualify through military service. The temporary license is valid for up to 180 days, with a potential single extension, provided the applicant is not under disciplinary action in any jurisdiction. The bill also mandates that if a criminal history check is required for a professional license, it will also apply to temporary licenses, and the Department has the authority to revoke a temporary license obtained through deceit.

Additionally, the bill makes significant changes to the licensing and regulation of physical therapists, occupational therapists, and veterinarians in Alaska. It replaces references to "temporary permits" and "limited permits" with "temporary licenses," thereby clarifying the licensing process. The bill outlines the responsibilities of the relevant board, including the examination and licensing of applicants and maintaining a current register of licensed individuals. It also ensures that existing licenses and permits remain valid until their terms expire or are modified, with the bill set to take effect on July 1, 2026, while certain sections will take immediate effect.

Statutes affected:
SB0145A, AM SB 145, introduced 03/26/2025: 08.01.010, 08.01.064, 08.01.062, 08.01.063, U.S.C, 08.01.100, 08.13.070, 08.01.061, 08.13.160, 08.13.120, 08.13.130, 08.13.150, 08.01.075, 44.46.020, 08.13.175, 08.13.080, 08.13.185, 08.01.065, 08.13.190, 08.20.180, 08.20.160, 08.20.163, 08.20.141, 08.36.100, 08.36.238, 08.36.254, 08.64.279, 08.64.315, 08.68.220, 08.68.230, 08.84.010, 08.84.120, 08.84.050, 08.84.150, 08.84.032, 08.84.075, 08.98.120, 08.98.186, 08.02.050, 08.98.180, 08.98.165, 08.98.190, 08.11.020, 08.11.025, 08.13.170, 08.15.030, 08.26.050, 08.45.035, 08.63.130, 08.64.101, 08.64.270, 08.64.275, 08.68.210, 08.70.130, 08.80.150, 08.80.155, 08.84.065, 08.86.135, 08.86.166, 08.95.125