The bill, H.B. No. 296, proposes amendments to the Occupations Code to facilitate the issuance of medical licenses to applicants who are either licensed or educated in certain foreign countries. It introduces two new sections, 155.012 and 155.013, which allow the Texas Medical Board to issue licenses to applicants who meet specific criteria, including being licensed in good standing in countries such as Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom, holding a medical degree from an approved program, and demonstrating proficiency in English. Additionally, the bill outlines the requirements for graduates of foreign medical programs to obtain a license, including the completion of residency training or equivalent experience.

Furthermore, the bill adds Section 155.1015, which allows the board to issue provisional licenses to foreign medical program graduates who have received job offers in Texas. This provisional license will expire after three years unless the holder meets the requirements for a full license. The Texas Medical Board is required to adopt rules to implement these changes by December 1, 2025, with the act taking effect on September 1, 2025.

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