S.B. No. 1818 is a legislative act aimed at facilitating the issuance of licenses or provisional licenses to military service members, veterans, and their spouses for engaging in business or occupations within Texas. The bill amends the Occupations Code by adding new subsections (b-1) to Sections 55.004 and 55.0041. These subsections require state agencies to promptly issue provisional licenses upon receiving applications or required notices from military applicants, allowing them to operate while their applications are being processed. The provisional licenses will expire either when the agency makes a decision on the application or after 180 days from issuance.

Additionally, the bill mandates that state agencies adopt rules to implement these provisions by December 1, 2025. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, following its passage in both the Senate and House with unanimous support. This legislation aims to streamline the licensing process for military personnel and their families, recognizing their service and facilitating their transition into civilian occupations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Occupations Code 55.004, Occupations Code 55.0041 (Occupations Code 55)
Senate Committee Report: Occupations Code 55.004, Occupations Code 55.0041 (Occupations Code 55)
Engrossed: Occupations Code 55.004, Occupations Code 55.0041 (Occupations Code 55)
House Committee Report: Occupations Code 55.004, Occupations Code 55.0041 (Occupations Code 55)
Enrolled: Occupations Code 55.004, Occupations Code 55.0041 (Occupations Code 55)