What happened: Gov. Greg Abbott has signed into law HB 11, legislation that will help alleviate the incredible burden that licensed professionals face when they move to the Lone Star State. 

Remind me: Texas has one of the most burdensome occupational licensing systems in the country, with 858 license types reported in 2024. 

• Notably, licensed professionals moving to Texas often face duplicative, expensive and time-consuming licensing requirements, delaying their ability to quickly get to work and contribute to the economy. 

Why it matters: The reforms included in HB 11 will help break down unnecessary regulatory barriers, allowing qualified professionals to work more quickly and to meet Texas’ growing workforce demands. 

TLR Thoughts: TLR was proud to support HB 11 this session through the Coalition for Regulatory Efficiency and Reform. Modernizing licensing requirements will help unlock greater economic opportunity throughout the state, and signal that Texas “values talent over regulations and bureaucracy.”

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