The Cemetery and Funeral Bureau's Advisory Committee meeting on May 24, 2023, highlighted significant updates regarding licensing for service members and their families, as well as ongoing efforts to improve the licensing process in California.

A key topic discussed was the new federal portability law that took effect on January 5, 2023. This law allows service members and their spouses who hold professional licenses in other states to practice in California within the same professional discipline and scope of practice when relocating due to military orders. The Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA) is actively collaborating with relevant agencies to implement this law effectively and will provide updates as more information becomes available. Committee members were advised to direct any inquiries from service members or spouses regarding this law to DCA Legal Affairs.

Additionally, the DCA presented its 2022 annual report to the legislature, which is now accessible on the DCA website. This report features a new design and includes additional metrics, such as military licensing data, which are now required for all DCA boards and bureaus.

The meeting also addressed delays in the printing of renewals and initial licenses, which were held up from April 13 to May 15. The Bureau is currently working to resolve this backlog, and licensees should expect to receive their licenses soon. Committee members reassured that field representatives and inspectors are aware of the situation and will not penalize those who do not have their current licenses posted during this period.

There was a discussion about the potential for digital solutions to reduce reliance on paper licenses. The committee acknowledged that while paper licenses are only valid at the moment of printing, there is a need for technological improvements to streamline the licensing process. The Bureau is exploring IT solutions to enhance efficiency in license management.

Overall, the meeting underscored the Bureau's commitment to supporting service members and improving the licensing experience for all professionals in California.