Congressman Patronis Introduces Bill Allowing Licensing Flexibility for Veterans

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Jimmy Patronis introduced H.R. 5035 - Veteran and Spouse Licensing Flexibility Act of 2025. This pro-veteran family legislation would cut the red tape for professionally licensed service members and their spouses as they transition to civilian life after their years of service to America. Under circumstances similar to those contained in the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act, veterans and their spouse would have the ability to port their professional licenses to different jurisdictions for the first 36 months following the honorable discharge of the servicemember.

Congressman Jimmy Patronis said, “Millions of veterans who proudly served in uniform possess a wide range of professional skills when they return home from military service, many of which are skills that require professional licensing. Many served as doctors, engineers, electricians, and more. What better way to help our veterans transition back into society and the American job market than to allow them the portability necessary to use their skills to serve their local communities. That’s why I introduced the Veteran and Spouse Licensing Flexibility Act of 2025. This bill enables newly discharged families to maximize all the opportunities the Trump economy has to offer regardless of state lines and where the servicemember or spouse may have started his or her professional journey. If you’ve put your life on the line for our country, you deserve every opportunity available to continue practicing your profession knowing you will have the ability to provide for your family.

Under current law, military personnel and spouses with professional licenses, such as licenses in medicine, engineering, and etc., must receive approval from local or state professional authorities to practice their trade. Under this bill, not only are military families afforded flexibility in their post-service planning, but they are also guaranteed speed. If a licensing authority fails to act within 30 days of the application, the veteran or their spouse receives a temporary license. This measure ensures that our heroes can transition seamlessly into civilian careers, support their families, and keep contributing their skills to our communities.

To learn more about H.R. 5035 - Veteran and Spouse Licensing Flexibility Act of 2025, click HERE.

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