The National Occupational Licensing Meeting marked the culmination of a four-year collaboration between The Council of State Governments (CSG) and National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL). This collaboration, funded by a grant from the U.S. Department of Labor, focused on improving state professional licensure policy. The meeting highlighted research and lessons CSG and NCSL learned from working with the states on this issue for the past four years. Click here for the full agenda and linked resources.
The meeting covered the national labor and economic outlook, antitrust and regulatory best practices, licensing since the COVID-19 pandemic began and lessons from the Occupational Licensing Learning Consortium. The learning consortium was in collaboration among CSG, NCSL and the National Governor’s Association with the goal to reduce licensing barriers, streamline requirements and increase the mobility of licensed professionals. The consortium panel included representatives from Arkansas, Colorado, Utah and Vermont who shared policy recommendations based on lessons learned. Topics emphasized included fast track endorsements, military experience, telehealth, and licensure compacts.
The meeting also highlighted research and best practices for reducing barriers to occupational licensure for populations including justice involved individuals, military families and internationally trained workers. Internationally and military trained professionals often have credentials that do not transfer efficiently. Military families are highly mobile and need to reapply for a license upon moving to a new state, often delaying their ability to reenter the workforce. Strategies for addressing these barriers include reciprocal and accelerated licensure, compacts and apprenticeships. Best practices for inclusivity in the workforce were also addressed including the importance of implicit bias training; a focus on diversity, equity and inclusion; and expanding employee recruitment.
The meeting sessions were well received by guests in attendance. Attendees asked questions, collaborated between sessions and shared resources. They found greatest value in sessions that offered policy recommendations about licensure regulations.
This workforce product was funded by a grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration. The product was created by the recipient and does not necessarily reflect the official position of the U.S. Department of Labor. The Department of Labor makes no guarantees, warranties, or assurances of any kind, express or implied, with respect to such information, including any information on linked sites and including, but not limited to, accuracy of the information or its completeness, timeliness, usefulness, adequacy, continued availability, or ownership. This product is copyrighted by The Council of State Governments.