The proposed bill aims to establish a new chapter in Title 43 of the North Dakota Century Code, focusing on universal licensure and the operations of various boards. It introduces definitions for key terms such as "applicant," "application," "board," and "license," which are essential for understanding the licensing process. The bill mandates that boards issue licenses to out-of-state licensees who meet specific criteria, including having actively used their license for two of the last three years, demonstrating competency, and passing a criminal background check if required. Additionally, it outlines the responsibilities of boards in processing applications, including a ten-day timeline for issuing licenses for routine applications and the ability to grant provisional licenses.
Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the importance of timely operations and transparency within the boards. It requires boards to report data on licensing activities and mandates annual reviews of interstate compacts to assess their relevance to the professions they regulate. The bill also allows for the delegation of authority to issue temporary licenses and mandates that continuing education requirements for licensure renewal can be completed through virtual means. Lastly, it establishes a process for applicants to address licensure delays, ensuring that they have a clear path for resolution through the board or the governor's office.