Governor enacts universal license law

Governor González Colón stated that she plans to work on a draft amendment.

By The Star Staff

Governor Jenniffer González Colón signed Senate Bill 6 into law on Sunday, establishing the controversial “Universal Recognition of Occupational and Professional Licenses in Puerto Rico Act.”

This law allows professionals with valid licenses from other U.S. jurisdictions to practice in Puerto Rico without having to go through local evaluation processes again. However, real estate agents and engineers have expressed concerns that the new law may oversaturate their fields. The governor argues that this law promotes labor mobility, economic development, and improves the quality of occupational and professional services on the island, while also establishing a clear public policy.

González Colón stated that she plans to work on a draft amendment. “For Puerto Rico, which aims to increase its labor force participation rate and attract Puerto Ricans who have migrated to other U.S. jurisdictions, it is essential to implement portability or reciprocity for both occupational and professional licenses from other states. At least 20 states nationwide have similar laws,” she said in a written statement.

The law also establishes a list of professions and trades that will be overseen by Examining Boards attached to the Department of State. These professions will be subject to a new uniform occupational licensing process. Recognized professions include certified public accountants, architects, landscape architects, pharmacy assistants, barbers, professional counselors, cosmetologists, dentists, private detectives, electricians, nurses, trainers, hair stylists, photographers, tour guides, pesticide inspectors, legal advocates, sign language interpreters, physical education teachers, auto mechanics, nutritionists, dietitians, optometrists, electrical examiners, plumbers, podiatrists, psychologists, chemists, nail technicians, vocational rehabilitation specialists, speech and language therapists, occupational therapists, and social workers.

All these occupations will follow a uniform procedure for evaluating, granting, denying, or reviewing licenses, in accordance with the guidelines set by the Department of State.

The amendments proposed by the governor include: clear regulatory development for each Examining Board, orientation and outreach programs for employers and professionals, a metrics system to monitor impact (retention, reverse migration), interstate compacts with states receiving Puerto Rican migrants, ensuring reciprocity is mutual, focus on critical areas such as health, establishment of a residency requirement and clear requirements for continuing education on Puerto Rico’s laws and regulations.