New law allows out-of-state professionals to easily get licensed in New Hampshire

[Smokey]

This new law allows for occupational licenses to be transferred when someone moves to New Hampshire as long as the state they're coming from has similar requirements for that certification. This law makes it easier for people to find employment and limits the red tape that other states have in trying to get their licensing redone. They had considered doing away with 30 different licenses, but realized that the quality would drop in the candidates applying for those positions.

The link to the bill: https://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/bill_status/billinfo.aspx?id=421&inflect=2

 

[Eric]

Thanks for sharing, @Smokey. Occupational licensing gets negative press because of the unreasonable barriers it sometimes places between genuinely skilled people and the businesses they're trying to start. I've seen hair braiding in the news, for example, because in a lot of states you need a cosmetology license (something you have to go to school for) before you can legally run any kind of hair braiding business. Fortunately, Idaho and a few other states have recently passed laws exempting hair braiding from cosmetology licensing.

Like New Hampshire, more and more states are also moving toward universal licensing, i.e., accepting occupational licenses issues by other states without layering on additional requirements. As with hair braiding exemptions, universal licensing seems to represent a more common-sense approach to occupational licensing that should hopefully help reduce unnecessary barriers to doing business.

 

[Debashis]

I think the decision to allow the transfer of occupational licenses when individuals move to New Hampshire is a smart move. It not only facilitates easier employment opportunities for newcomers but also reduces bureaucratic hurdles, making the state more welcoming. Moreover, the careful consideration to retain certain licenses rather than doing away with them shows a commitment to maintaining high-quality standards in various professions. This balanced approach ensures that the state benefits from skilled and qualified professionals while still reducing unnecessary red tape. It's a win-win for both the workforce and the state's economy.

 

[Shortie]

This is definitely a step in the right direction to help people who choose to move to New Hampshire stay at work instead of ending up unemployed and having to look for work.

Especially at the moment with how things are in the world for many, losing a job and having red tape in the way preventing them from keeping a job they are able to do would affect so many. We can only hope others also follow suit if they do not already allow the transfer of occupational licenses.

 

[Bizdustry.com]

Some people who oppose these laws worry that there could be problems if the standards differ too much between states. The overall effect of the law will depend on how it is put into action and overseen. Policymakers must find a way to encourage professionals to move while still making sure safety and quality are upheld.

 

[Nomad]

If occupational licenses can be transferred when professionals move to a new state, it will be easier for people to find out. You cannot strip someone from working just because the person has moved to a new state. If the person is already qualified to do some jobs and also has a license, why should there be a barrier to working in a new state? I think this new provision in New Hampshire has properly addressed the issue.