establishing a web-based occupational license application portal for veterans and military spouses.
SB 656 creates a web-based portal for veterans and military spouses in New Hampshire to apply for occupational licenses or transfer licenses from other states. The bill requires the Veterans Licensing Acceleration Program (VLAP) administrator to establish this online system, which will handle new applications and out-of-state transfers while connecting applicants to resources like mentors and licensing board requirements. It also mandates annual reporting on program outcomes to state legislators and collaboration with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The portal is set to launch on January 1, 2027, streamlining access to licensing for military-connected individuals.
Bill status
failed
3 of 5 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2026
Committee Review
Apr 2026
Senate Passage
Feb 2026
House Passage
Governor
Introduced Feb 4, 2026
Last action Apr 23, 2026
Floor votes
How they voted
No floor votes recorded yet.
Full legislative history
Actions timeline
Total actions
12
Key actions
3
Committee
4
Apr 15, 2026
Committee
Committee Report: Inexpedient to Legislate 04/08/2026 (Vote 13-0; CC)
lower
Apr 1, 2026
Lower · Passed
Full Committee Work Session: 04/08/2026 10:00 am GP 231
lower
Feb 26, 2026
Introduced
Introduced (in recess of) 02/19/2026 and referred to Executive Departments and Administration HJ 5 P. 127
lower
Feb 12, 2026
Upper · Passed
Ought to Pass: MA, VV; OT3rdg; 02/19/2026; SJ 4
upper
Feb 11, 2026
Upper · Passed
Committee Report: Ought to Pass, 02/19/2026; Vote 4-0; CC; SC 6
upper
Feb 4, 2026
Introduced
Introduced 01/29/2026 and Referred to Executive Departments and Administration; SJ 3
upper
1 primary · 3 co-sponsors
Sponsors
Role
Legislator
Party
State
District
P
Tim McGough
RRepublican
Co
David Watters
DDemocratic
Co
Pat Long
DDemocratic
Co
Ruth Ward
RRepublican
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