Lilly Backs Effort to Address Professional Licensing Backlog at IDFPR

CHICAGO – Understanding concerns from residents impacted by long wait times, state Rep. Camille Y. Lilly, D-Chicago, recently supported a plan to help speed up the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR)’s license approval and renewal processes, and to provide leniency to professional groups that have faced issues.

“When getting a license approved has needless delays and hurdles, it can impact both workers and those who rely on their services,” Lilly said. “The issues that IDFPR has been having in providing prompt licenses is impacting in-demand professional careers, such as nursing. People should not have to wait months and months to get a response on their application because of outdated computer systems at a state agency.”

Lilly helped pass House Bill 2394, which will expedite the procurement process for IDFPR as it looks to upgrade outdated computer software involved in licensing. The bill requires IDFPR to acquire and implement new software within 180 days of the bill being signed into law. Additionally, IDFPR will have the ability for one year to extend expiration dates and renewal periods for classes of licenses they determine are most in need for reasons such as shortages in professional fields or high numbers of applicants that are waiting. 

“These are licenses that are necessary for people to even start a job, and it’s important their applications are handled properly and in a timely manner,” Lilly said. “This overhaul is overdue, and I’m confident that IDFPR will implement it efficiently and effectively.”

House Bill 2394 received bipartisan support from the House and Senate, and will head to the governor for approval.

For more information, please contact staterepcamilleylilly@gmail.com.