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 valid out-of-state license. Additionally, the bill mandates that state agencies notify applicants within ten business days of their application status.

Further provisions include the establishment of criteria for determining "good standing" with other states' licensing authorities and the requirement for state agencies to maintain records of complaints against licensed military personnel. The bill also waives application and examination fees for military applicants and sets a deadline for state agencies to process applications. 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)