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Indiana Lawmakers Explore New Ways To Accept Out-Of-State Professional Licenses

(Screenshot of Indiana General Assembly)

Legislators are looking for ways for more out-of-state professional licenses to transfer easily to Indiana. It comes as a variety of industries say they’re having a hard time getting skilled workers to take jobs in the state.

Experts from career fields including mental health, social work and medicine testified at a legislative summer study session. They say Indiana’s licensure process for out-of-state workers is slow and has antiquated requirements like mailing documents. Instead, they say it should be digital and offer quick verification methods.

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Sen. Ron Alting (R-Lafayette) shared the concern of several legislators that a frustrating licensure process could be adding to a shortage of skilled workers.

“It’s time to erase the chalkboard and get in the 21st century here and do some things that can streamline [and] get these people licenses quicker,“ Alting said.

Lawmakers said they’ll consider future legislation that would enter into a compact or reciprocity agreement with other states to share information.

Contact reporter Justin at jhicks@wvpe.org or follow him on Twitter at @Hicks_JustinM.

CORRECTION: A previous version of this story identified Sen. Ron Alting as a Democrat. That was incorrect. He is a Republican.