The bill amends New Mexico's licensure laws to create an expedited licensing process for qualified applicants across various professional and occupational boards. It introduces a new expedited license for individuals who are currently licensed in good standing in another state, territory, the District of Columbia, or a foreign country, contingent upon the payment of required fees. This expedited process applies to several professions, including genetic counseling, polysomnography, physician assistants, and anesthesiologist assistants. The bill also repeals existing provisions for temporary licenses, replacing them with the expedited licensing framework that emphasizes current good standing in another jurisdiction.

Furthermore, the bill adds a new section to the Signed Language Interpreting Practices Act, mandating that the board grant expedited licenses to individuals who meet specific criteria, including certification by a recognized signed language interpreter organization. It also establishes limits on fee increases associated with licensing, capping the first increase at thirty dollars and subsequent increases at a maximum of five percent of the existing fee. This aims to alleviate financial burdens on applicants while ensuring that the licensing process remains efficient and accessible for qualified professionals seeking to practice in New Mexico.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 61-6A-8, 61-6B-3, 61-7A-8, 61-11-10, 61-12F-1, 61-12G-1, 61-17A-5, 61-27B-33, 61-29-9, 61-30-20, 61-32-10, 61-33-5