Bill for military spouses seeks to aid job options

“These spouses are often employed in professions that require new licensing for each new location, such as teachers and nurses — vital occupations in a military community,” said Rep. Elise M. Stefanik, R-Willsboro, sponsor of the bill. “These dedicated spouses must be allowed to maintain their hard-earned professional licenses and certifications as they relocate.”

Among the supporters of the bill, according to Ms. Stefanik, are the Military Officers Association of America, the National Military Spouse Network and the National Military Family Association.

The federal push comes as awareness rises about inconsistent rules between states that some argue are unfair to military families.

New York was the last state to tackle the issue, with the state Legislature approving a bill on the issue in June.

The bill is supported by State Sens. Patricia A. Ritchie, R-Heuvelton, and Joseph A. Griffo, R-Rome, and Assembly members Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, and Kenneth D. Blankenbush, R-Black River.

The bill allows spouses with standing licenses in other states to receive a temporary six-month permit, and up to a six-month extension to receive a New York equivalent license.

The spouses would also receive a 50 percent discount on normal state license fees. State officials will review their training and history to ensure they meet state standards.

It is expected to aid in more than 50 fields, including medicine, architecture, accounting and social work.

“That’s a great step in increasing some of the population of spouses and families that come to Fort Drum instead of staying in their current location,” said Fort Drum Deputy Garrison Commander Eric Wagenaar.

Nationwide, the societal costs of military spouse unemployment and underemployment could total as much as $1.07 billion annually, according to advocacy group Blue Star Families. The group also reported military spouses have higher unemployment compared to civilian peers.