North Lancaster News

Pennsylvania's legislative framework may become more accommodating to out-of-state businesses following a bill authored by State Representative Dave Zimmerman. The legislation was unanimously approved by the House Professional Licensure Committee on Wednesday.

Zimmerman emphasized the importance of easing the process for future employers entering Pennsylvania, stating, "One of the simplest things we can do as a future employer is to clean up the path of hurdles that obstruct the path which leads into Pennsylvania." He further noted that recognizing accomplishments made in other states is an important step forward.

The proposed legislation aims to simplify licensing procedures for professional engineers relocating to Pennsylvania by acknowledging their previous work experience and training obtained in other states. Zimmerman explained, "We currently hand out engineer-in-training certificates and then require candidates to obtain four or more years of experience in engineering work. Why make it harder on them by ignoring their existing work experience and training because it was accomplished elsewhere? We’d be eliminating an incredibly unnecessary ‘hoop’ they presently have to jump through to get licensed in Pennsylvania."

The bill will now proceed to be considered by the full House.

For inquiries regarding this legislation or other state government issues, individuals are encouraged to contact Zimmerman's district office at 1-717-556-0031.