Bill would let workers from non-licensing states apply work experience toward a temporary Missouri license

Representative O'Keein presented House Bill 478 to the House Committee on Professional Registration and Licensure, saying the bill “allows individuals with 3 years of work experience in a profession from a state that does not require licensure to apply that experience towards obtaining a temporary 2 year license.” He said the measure is aimed at easing workforce shortages by recognizing supervised work experience from states that do not impose an occupational license.

Under the bill as described, applicants must submit proof of relevant work experience — for example wage statements — and may need employment background checks at the applicant’s cost. Representative O'Keein also said applicants would still be required to “pass any necessary state or board exams to ensure they are qualified or competent in their field.” He noted several neighboring states have implemented similar approaches and framed the bill as expanding Missouri's ability to attract experienced workers while maintaining board oversight.

Committee members asked several detailed questions. Representative Reed asked why the draft includes a U.S. citizenship requirement; Reed noted that some people authorized to work, such as DACA recipients, are not U.S. citizens. Representative O'Keein said he was aware of DACA and “I'd be willing to have that conversation” about allowing people authorized to work under federal law to qualify. Other members, including Representative Novotis and Representative Dahl, asked whether the bill would unintentionally allow out-of-state professionals in tightly regulated fields — such as engineers, land surveyors and architects — to seek temporary licensure without meeting specialty requirements. The presenter said boards would retain discretion to accept or reject applicants and that he would work with the committee on carve-outs.

Several members sought technical clarifications: the bill text requires applicants to “take and pass the profession specific examination required for licensure,” while another line reads that a board “may” require additional exams; Representative O'Keein agreed to clarify contradictory language. Committee members discussed whether the bill should be amended to expand eligibility to noncitizen legal residents or others authorized to work; the sponsor said he would consider amendments to include green card holders or those authorized to work if the committee wished.

The transcript records questions and discussion only; no formal committee vote on House Bill 478 was recorded in the provided segment. The committee then moved on to other bills.