The Michigan House of Representatives and state Rep. Mark Huizenga today approved a bipartisan plan to help military and veteran family members easily transfer a professional license when they move to Michigan.

“We owe a debt of gratitude to the men and women who serve our nation in the military and their families who support them,” said Huizenga, of Walker. “Military families are often moved around the country, and the qualified professionals in these families should not have to jump through hoops to obtain a license and get a job when they move to Michigan. This plan will support those who serve our country and help their families transition to our state.”

The House today approved Senate Bills 157 and 312. These bills, along with House Bills 4376 and 4377, would create license reciprocity for members of the armed forces and other uniformed services, veterans, and their spouses and dependents. The plan would allow the individuals to obtain professional licensure in Michigan without an exam if they hold an equivalent license or registration in good standing in another state, among other requirements.

The legislation would also waive fees for initial license or registration for members of the armed forces and other uniformed services, veterans, and their spouses and dependents.

SBs 157 and 312 now return to the Senate.

HBs 4376 and 4377 passed the House earlier this year. The Senate recently approved the bills with amendments, and the amended legislation is now under further consideration by the House.