New Stuart Law to Extend Professional Licenses for Military Members and Spouses

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – A new law sponsored by state Rep. Katie Stuart, D-Edwardsville, will allow military members and their spouses to extend their temporary professional and occupational licenses while they are stationed in Illinois. The new law will also give the applicants the ability to reapply for permanent licensure while simultaneously being able to work. 

“Military families already sacrifice so much to serve their country, they should not have the additional obstacle of constantly reapplying for their professional license when they move to Illinois,” Stuart said. “I’ve heard first hand from families that are affiliated with Scott Air Force base that this was a need in our state to ensure they can easily adapt when moving state to state.”

Stuart’s House Bill 1652 will make it easier for military families that move around every few years to easily access and renew the professional licenses they may need for their profession.  Previously, temporary professional licenses in Illinois were good for 6 months. Under Stuart’s law, military members and their spouses will be able to extend their licenses to 3 years, which is the common time span of a military assignment. 

“The men and women that move to Illinois for military service deserve to have a smooth process in obtaining and maintaining their professional license,” continued Stuart. “I’m glad that Illinois can be a state that makes it easier for military professionals and families to make a living.”