S.B. No. 1818 aims to facilitate the licensing process for military service members, veterans, and their spouses by introducing provisions for provisional licenses. 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 a provisional license upon receiving an application or required notice, allowing applicants to engage in their respective occupations while their applications are being processed. The provisional license will expire either when the agency makes a decision on the application or after 180 days from the date of issuance.
Additionally, the bill mandates that state agencies adopt rules to implement these new provisions by December 1, 2025. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, thereby enhancing support for military personnel and their families in pursuing business opportunities within the state.
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)