Members of the Missouri Legislature work toward many goals throughout our time in the Capitol. There are several points with which we agree, but few as much as our desire to assist those who volunteer to make the ultimate sacrifice when they join the U.S. Military. It is not only those individuals who take on this challenge, but it is also their families.
With this in mind, each year, lawmakers work toward ways that seek to help not only those who put on a uniform, but those who stay at home to care for loved ones and run the day-to-day aspects of life while their spouse is away, serving our country.
Add to this mix a commitment many of us in the Missouri General Assembly have made to cut unnecessary government regulation, and there are the components that are needed for Senate Bill 673 & 560, which has been passed by the Missouri Senate.
Senate Bill 673 & 560 would allow any resident of Missouri, a resident military spouse, or anon-resident military spouse to apply for a professional license in his or her chosen profession. Current law allows any resident of Missouri who holds a valid license, issued by another state, to submit an application for a license in Missouri in the same occupation or profession. This legislation would help military spouses stationed in Missouri apply for a license here, as long as the person also submits proof of current licensure from their home state.
If someone moves to our state because his or her spouse has been transferred here, but cannot work in Missouri, it means that person cannot support a family. This leads to difficulties for them, and more unemployment. All of this can be eliminated, if we simply cut away unneeded red tape and let people work. It is a win-win for everybody involved.
As always, please feel free to call, email or write with your ideas or concerns. My Capitol office number is (573) 751-1415, my email is dan.hegeman@senate.mo.gov and my mailing address is Room 332, State Capitol Building, Jefferson City, MO 65101.