Governor and Commissioner Highlight Initiative to Make Occupational Licensing Easier and Quicker for Veterans

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Governor Paul R. LePage and Commissioner Anne Head highlighted an initiative at the Department of Professional and Financial Regulation (DPFR) to make occupational licensing in several professions quicker and easier for veterans with relevant military training and experience.

Governor LePage has made it a priority to help Maine's veterans--encouraging state agencies to provide assistance to those who served our nation in the military. One such effort by the Governor and DPFR has been the implementation of Public Law Chapter 603, signed by the Governor earlier this year.

The new law is intended to ensure that veterans are given full credit for applicable military training and experience when they apply for an occupational license from the Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation at DPFR.

"The people of Maine owe a debt of gratitude to those who have served," Governor LePage commented. "We have an obligation to recognize their knowledge and skills whenever possible and appropriate, and our economy needs their contributions. I'm pleased to have worked with the Department and Legislature to make licensing quicker and easier for our veterans."

More information can be obtained by calling DFPR at 207-624-8678. Veterans are encouraged to contact DFPR before applying. Military documentation that may be needed includes:

-- Copy of a DD Form 214, Report of Discharge; and

-- Copy of DD Form 2586, Verification of Military Experience and Training (VMET).

"The Department is committed to working with Maine veterans to make sure their skills and talents are fully evaluated and appreciated," Commissioner Head noted. "Whenever we can give veterans credit toward licensing requirements, based on their military experience, we intend to do so. It's in the best interest of veterans, our business community, and consumers seeking the services of electricians, plumbers and other professionals."

Commissioner Head noted that the Department will continue to explore ways to streamline programs and assist veterans--while also continuing to safeguard public health and safety. She encouraged anyone with ideas for additional improvements to licensing laws and procedures to contact the Department by calling 207-624-8678.