Tallahassee, FL – Yesterday afternoon Florida State Senator Jeff Brandes (R) introduced the Occupational Opportunity Act, or SB 1272. The bill would expand opportunities for the Florida military community by making it easier for service members and their spouses to find and keep jobs as they relocate.
If passed, the bill would lengthen the amount of time an occupational license stays valid after a service member retires or a military spouse moves into the state. SB 1272 also waives licensing fees for new in-state applicants in the military community.
Concerned Veterans for America Coalitions Director Diego Echeverri issued the following statement:
“We applaud Senator Brandes for working to ensure greater economic opportunity for the millions who comprise the Florida military community. Whether it’s a service member hanging up the uniform or a military spouse relocating to a new base, the transition into a new civilian life is incredibly difficult. Florida’s government should seek to remove the burdensome red tape holding our nation’s heroes back from economic security, and the Occupational Opportunity Act is a great first step. We urge the Senate to pass SB 1272 quickly, and the House should follow suit as soon as possible.”
Earlier this month, Representative Paul Renner (R) introduced the House version of SB 1272, HB 615.
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