The bill amends K.S.A. 2024 Supp. 48-3406 to simplify the licensing process for military servicemembers and their spouses in Kansas. It introduces definitions for terms such as "applicant," "complete application," and "licensing body," and specifies that military spouses will not be required to pay any fees when submitting a complete application for occupational licenses. Upon submission, licensing bodies are mandated to issue both paper-based and verified electronic licenses, registrations, or certifications, enabling applicants to practice their professions legally. The bill also outlines the criteria for applicants from other states to obtain licenses in Kansas, including the provision for temporary permits if their qualifications do not align with Kansas standards.

Additionally, the bill requires the establishment of a uniform license verification portal by January 1, 2025, to facilitate electronic management and verification of licenses. It clarifies that these provisions do not extend to the practice of law or attorney regulation and allows licensing bodies to deny applications if qualifications are not substantially equivalent to Kansas standards. The bill also mandates that licensing bodies waive all fees related to obtaining and renewing occupational credentials for military spouses, including application, licensing, and background check fees. Furthermore, it requires annual reporting from licensing bodies on application statistics and processing times, and it repeals a specific section of existing law, indicating a regulatory shift. The bill will take effect upon publication in the statute book.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 48-3406