§ 30-1B-1 — Legislative findings and declarations

The Legislature finds that:

(1) In recognition of the enormous sacrifices made by members of the Armed Forces of the United States of America and their families in voluntary service to this state and our nation, the citizens of West Virginia must endeavor to find new and innovative ways to improve the lives of military families and support their personal and professional growth;

(2) Many current and former members of the United States Armed Forces have acquired extensive academic, professional and occupational training and experience in various professions and occupations while serving in the Armed Forces, comparable to or exceeding that required in this state to register for examination or qualify for licensure, certification, or registration for similar or related occupations and professions;

(3) Veterans of the armed forces and the spouses of current members who return or relocate to this state are frequently delayed in beginning employment as professionals because of issues with obtaining licenses, certifications or registrations upon arrival or return to West Virginia;

(4) Because of the training and experiences these individuals have and the challenges they may face when seeking licensure, certification, or registration, it is in the best interests of this state to ease these burdens and ensure the boards in this chapter use the relevant experiences of these men and women to ensure they are able to find employment as quickly as possible.

Legislative History

2023 Reg. Sess., HB2967; 2023 Reg. Sess., SB419; 2014 Reg. Sess., HB4151