GARDINER, Maine — In advance of Memorial Day, Gov. Paul LePage and Professional and Financial Regulation Commissioner Anne Head are highlighting an ongoing initiative at the Department of Professional and Financial Regulation that aims to make occupational licensing quicker and easier for veterans with relevant military training and experience.
LePage signed Public Law Chapter 603 in 2012 to ensure that veterans are given full credit for applicable military training and experience when they apply for an occupational license from the state’s Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation.
The following year, the governor signed Public Law Chapter 311, which builds on the 2012 measure.
“We should always recall the sacrifice of those who have served but Memorial Day is a special time of reflection,” LePage said in a news release about the initiative.
“For those who have served and returned to civilian life, we have a responsibility to recognize their skills and to assist them in obtaining the credentials needed for good jobs,” he said, adding that “Veterans have much to offer businesses and organizations throughout Maine and our economy needs their contributions.”
The two laws provide the department with greater flexibility in evaluating and crediting military experience toward licensing and continuing education requirements. The laws also help veterans and their spouses by allowing them to acquire a license by endorsement if they hold a comparable license in another state.
Besides more flexibility, the laws signed in 2012 and 2013 have led to a concerted outreach effort by the Department of Professional and Financial Regulation. Staff members have been participating in job fairs for veterans and attending meetings of organizations that serve military members, veterans and their families.
The next outreach event is 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday in the Androscoggin Room at the Department of Professional and Financial Regulation at 76 Northern Ave. in Gardiner.
Military documentation that may be needed includes a copy of a DD Form 214, Report of Discharge, and a copy of DD Form 2586, Verification of Military Experience and Training.
For more information and directions, call 624-8605 or visit maine.gov/pfr.