CSHB 277(W&M) - Occupational Licensing Summary

• Establishes reciprocity provisions allowing Alaska to issue occupational licenses to applicants holding comparable active licenses from other states for at least two years, with good standing verification and background checks.

• Removes specific credentialing and endorsement pathways for several professions (CPAs, dentists, nurses, engineers, pharmacists, physical therapists, social workers) in favor of uniform reciprocity requirements.

• Caps occupational licensing fees at the national average of total fees collected for similar occupations, with annual departmental reviews to ensure compliance.

• Expands licensing reciprocity to school bus/commercial motor vehicle drivers and pesticide applicators, with fee caps tied to national averages and annual review requirements.

• Takes effect July 1, 2025; allows existing licenses issued under prior credentialing or endorsement provisions to remain valid until normal expiration.