This bill aims to alleviate the financial burden on spouses and dependents of active-duty members of the United States Armed Forces by prohibiting professional or occupational boards from charging application fees for licensure. Specifically, it amends existing law to ensure that these individuals can apply for licenses without incurring costs, thereby facilitating their ability to practice their professions in New Jersey. Additionally, the bill removes the requirement for these applicants to pay a fee for a temporary courtesy license, further easing the process for military families.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that all professional or occupational licensing boards include a designated box on their application forms for applicants to indicate their status as a spouse or dependent of an active-duty service member. This provision aims to streamline the application process and ensure that the boards are aware of the applicants' military affiliation, which may influence their eligibility for fee waivers. The bill is set to take effect 90 days after its enactment.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 45:1-15.5