Labor & Employment (Public Employees)

HB 149 requires Mississippi's state workforce board and occupational licensing boards to accept military education, training, or service as equivalent to civilian requirements for professional licenses in multiple licensed professions (like nursing, engineering, and cosmetology). It directly affects veterans and military members transitioning to civilian careers by allowing them to use evidence of their military experience to meet licensing criteria. The bill mandates that applicants provide proof of military service completion, and boards must expedite licenses for active-duty personnel. It also requires public colleges and universities to develop policies for accepting military-acquired academic credits. The legislation applies to all 32 licensed occupations listed in the bill's Section 2.