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Military Spouse Employment and Economic Opportunities

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Key Message

As states implement the provisions of the Military Spouse Licensing Relief Act, they can help spouses maintain professional and financial stability by ensuring that a state license can be obtained in 30 days, with minimal paperwork, and that licensing agencies make their application processes easily accessible online. States can consider additional support by providing employment preference and ensuring that private employers can also offer preference under the law.

Analysis

Simplifying the application process for military spouses to acquire a new professional license when they move across state lines, and providing them with one in a timely fashion, is key for maintaining licensure and employment and critical for the well-being of military families.

Insights

According to a 2023 demographic profile, there are 561,008 active-duty spouses, with 21% being unemployed civilian spouses. Addressing their well-being as they navigate military life is vital to keeping their family strong, which includes maintaining their employment.

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