H.B. No. 5629 aims to streamline the occupational licensing process for military service members, veterans, and their spouses in Texas. The bill amends Sections 55.004 and 55.0041 of the Occupations Code to allow these individuals to obtain licenses more easily by recognizing out-of-state licenses that are similar in scope and ensuring they are in good standing. Specifically, it removes the requirement for state agencies to adopt rules regarding residency documentation for military applicants and allows military spouses to engage in licensed occupations without obtaining a Texas license if they hold a similar license from another state.

Additionally, the bill introduces new provisions that define what constitutes "good standing" with another state's licensing authority and mandates that state agencies maintain records of complaints against military licensees. It also requires agencies to notify applicants within ten business days of their application status and waives application and examination fees for military applicants. The changes will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will apply only to applications submitted after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Occupations Code 55.004, Occupations Code 55.0041, Occupations Code 55.009 (Occupations Code 55)
House Committee Report: Occupations Code 55.004, Occupations Code 55.0041, Occupations Code 55.005, Occupations Code 55.009 (Occupations Code 55)
Engrossed: Occupations Code 55.004, Occupations Code 55.0041, Occupations Code 55.005, Occupations Code 55.009 (Occupations Code 55)
Senate Committee Report: Occupations Code 55.004, Occupations Code 55.0041, Occupations Code 55.005, Occupations Code 55.009 (Occupations Code 55)
Enrolled: Occupations Code 55.004, Occupations Code 55.0041, Occupations Code 55.005, Occupations Code 55.009 (Occupations Code 55)