The bill, S.B. No. 1787, aims to facilitate the licensing of military veterans as healthcare providers in Texas by amending the Occupations Code. It introduces two new sections: Section 155.108 for physicians and Section 301.262 for nurses. Both sections stipulate that the Texas medical and nursing boards must issue licenses to applicants who are veterans of the armed forces, have been licensed in good standing in another state, and have passed the relevant jurisprudence examination. Additionally, applicants must have retired or left military service within one year of applying and must have been authorized to treat military personnel or veterans while on active duty in Texas.

The bill also outlines disqualifications for applicants, including those discharged for substandard conduct or misconduct, those under investigation for their medical or nursing licenses, and those with felony convictions or misdemeanors involving moral turpitude. The provisions aim to streamline the process for veterans transitioning to civilian healthcare roles while ensuring that only qualified individuals are licensed to practice. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

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