A plan from state Rep. Jamie Thompson cutting red tape for vital health professionals across the state was recently advanced unanimously by the Michigan House.

House Bill 4901 adjusts the licensing cycle for nurses and speech-language pathologists from two years to three. Numerous health care fields, like counselors, dentists and dental assistants, social workers, physician’s assistants, physical therapists, and more are subject to a three-year license cycle. The reforms will reduce bureaucratic burdens and fees that come from having to renew more frequently.

“When you become a nurse, you know how to carry out your responsibilities, care for patients and comfort families,” said Thompson, of Brownstown, who is a Licensed Practical Nurse. “That knowledge and experience doesn’t just go away after two years. This is a practical update that will work to keep more nurses in southeast Michigan and across our state instead of seeing them go to other states with policies that don’t nickel and dime their livelihoods.”

Thompson underscored reports last year that disclosed the state currently has nearly 5,000 unfilled hospital nursing positions.

“We can bring our licensing structure in line with other fields, maintain strong standards for care, and make our state more attractive for life-saving care professionals currently in Michigan and ones looking to work here,” Thompson said.

The plan is part of broader efforts by Thompson and House Republicans this legislative term to roll back regulations and help families, workers and job providers save.

HB 4901 now moves to the Senate for consideration.

PHOTO INFORMATION: State Rep. Jamie Thompson speaks on House Bill 4901 on Thursday, April 16 before its unanimous passage in the Michigan House. The bill adjusts licensing cycles for nurses and speech-language pathologists from two years to three, aligning these fields with others in the health care industry.