Reitz Highlights New Law to Extend Professional Licenses to Military Spouses

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Under a new law supported by state Rep. Nathan Reitz, D-Steeleville, military members and their spouses moving to Illinois for military service will have an easier time obtaining professional and occupational licenses.

“Our service members and their families already sacrifice so much to serve our country, including moving fairly often, so they deserve our support in every way possible,” said Reitz. “This new law will ensure that military spouses and family members that are nurses, realtors and other licensed professionals have a smooth process for licensure when they move to Illinois and they can continue practicing their profession in our state.”

Reitz supported House Bill 1652 to accelerate the process for professional licensure with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). Under this measure, which was recently signed into law, IDFPR will establish a military liaison to oversee the application process at the department, and extend the lifetime of such licenses to three years to accommodate active duty military and their spouses temporarily stationed at military bases throughout the state. IDFPR recently announced the hire of their first military liaison to help service members and their spouses navigate the professional licensure process.

“With our close proximity to Scott Air Force Base, this new law will make a huge difference here at home, helping to put military spouses to work and making their transition to Illinois smoother,” continued Reitz. “I will continue working to build a stronger Illinois that supports our military members and their families and supporting smart solutions to create local jobs and grow our economy.”  

For more information, contact Rep. Reitz’s constituent service office at 618-282-7284 or RepNReitz@gmail.com.