Veteran and Spouse Licensing Flexibility Act of 2025
- Bill Number
- H.R. 5035
- Origin Chamber
- House
- Congress
- 119th Congress, Session 1
- Policy Area
- Armed Forces and National Security
- Status
- Introduced
- Latest Action
- 2025-08-26: Referred to the House Committee on Education and Workforce.
- Last Updated
- 2026-05-01T08:09:14Z
AI-Generated Summary
Purpose This legislation establishes federal requirements to facilitate the portability of professional licenses held by veterans and their spouses when they relocate to a new state following the veteran's discharge or release from the Armed Forces.
Key Provisions
- A veteran or spouse with a covered license (one in good standing without revocation, discipline, or pending investigations) may use that license in a new state of residence for up to 36 months after the discharge or release date by submitting a specified application.
- The application must include a copy of the veteran's DD Form 214 (or equivalent), proof of marriage and military orders if applicable, and a notarized affidavit affirming identity, truthfulness, understanding of state requirements, compliance, and good standing in all prior licensing states.
- Licensing authorities must issue a temporary license with the same rights as a permanent one if they cannot process the application within 30 days.
- Authorities may conduct background checks before granting recognition.
- The bill defines key terms, including "covered license," "scope of practice," "veteran," and "spouse of a veteran," and clarifies that "discharge or release" includes retirement and certain honorable completions of service.
Significant Changes to Existing Law The bill introduces new federal mandates requiring state licensing authorities to recognize certain out-of-state professional licenses for qualifying veterans and spouses, overriding prior state discretion in these cases. It creates uniform application procedures and temporary licensing obligations not previously required under federal law.
Potential Impacts
- State government agencies, particularly licensing boards, must adapt processes to comply with federal timelines and documentation standards, potentially increasing administrative workload.
- Veterans and their spouses gain easier access to professional practice across state lines, reducing barriers to employment after military service.
- No direct effects on international relations are outlined in the bill.
Main Stakeholders Affected
- Veterans and their spouses seeking to practice licensed professions after relocation.
- State licensing authorities and boards responsible for regulating professions.
- Individuals and employers in licensed fields such as healthcare, education, and other regulated occupations.
Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications The measure asserts federal authority over certain aspects of state professional licensing for military-related individuals, which could raise questions of federal preemption. It focuses on supporting veterans through standardized recognition rules without altering broader licensing standards or scope of practice.
This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.
Sponsor
Cosponsors (1)
Recent Actions
- 2025-08-26: Referred to the House Committee on Education and Workforce.
- 2025-08-26: Introduced in House
- 2025-08-26: Introduced in House
Bill Versions
- Veteran and Spouse Licensing Flexibility Act of 2025 — issued 2025-08-26 — PDF (6 pages)