This bill amends various sections of the Idaho Code to recognize high school diplomas obtained from nonpublic schools as equivalent to those from accredited high schools or GEDs for occupational and professional licensure. A new section, 67-9419, is introduced to affirm that individuals aged 18 and older with a nonpublic school diploma meet the educational requirements for licensure. Additionally, existing sections related to professional licenses, including those for podiatry, mortuary science, long-term care administration, and real estate, are amended to acknowledge nonpublic school diplomas, thereby broadening access to licensure for individuals educated through nonpublic schooling.

The bill also updates qualifications for various professional licenses, such as those for real estate brokers and driving instructors, by requiring proof of graduation from a nonpublic school. It clarifies that applicants must submit a new fingerprint card for certain licenses and outlines conditions for modifying experience requirements based on educational background. Furthermore, the bill enhances clarity in legal language by replacing certain phrases and emphasizes the importance of maintaining a clean criminal record relevant to the licensing process. It establishes that all new applicants for licenses in barbering and cosmetology must complete a board-approved apprenticeship program, while also updating definitions and educational requirements to include nonpublic school students. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon passage, citing an emergency situation.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 54-606, 54-1112, 54-1113, 54-1606, 54-2012, 54-2409, 54-2916, 54-2916A, 54-2916B, 54-3108, 54-3109, 54-4009, 54-4307, 54-5406, 54-5802, 54-5810
Engrossment 1: 54-606, 54-1112, 54-1113, 54-1606, 54-2012, 54-2409, 54-2916, 54-2916A, 54-2916B, 54-3108, 54-3109, 54-4009, 54-4307, 54-5406, 54-5802, 54-5810