NY A08231

Expands the definition of "qualified applicant" in Education Law Section 6501 to include individuals enrolled in the federal Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program who meet all additional profession-specific requirements.

Amends citizenship and immigration status requirements across multiple professional licensing sections (physicians, dentists, veterinarians, animal health technicians, and various other licensed professions) to explicitly permit DACA program enrollees to apply for professional licenses.

Maintains existing waiver provisions for noncitizen professionals in medically underserved areas and other shortage designations while extending eligibility to DACA recipients.

Takes effect 60 days after becoming law, with regulatory amendments authorized to be completed immediately upon enactment.