N.L. legislation to make professional licensing process more flexible passes third reading

Legislation to amend Newfoundland and Labrador’s Fair Registration Practices Act has passed third reading in the House of Assembly.

The changes are intended to make it easier for qualified professionals, including internationally educated workers and people trained in other Canadian provinces, to have their credentials recognized and enter the provincial workforce.

Under the amendments, the list of regulatory bodies covered by the act will move from the legislation into regulations. This will give the provincial government greater flexibility to add or remove regulatory bodies without having to amend the act each time.

The government says the change will allow it to respond more quickly to labour mobility commitments and evolving workforce needs, while providing greater clarity around licensing requirements and timelines for qualified workers and prospective employers.

The amendments also support efforts to recognize professional credentials and training across provincial boundaries, making it easier for qualified workers to move between jurisdictions.

The government says the changes will not alter the purpose of the act or the responsibilities of regulatory bodies. Those organizations will continue to establish and assess professional qualifications, standards and licensing requirements, as well as maintain their public protection responsibilities.

Minister of Jobs, Growth and Rural Development Lin Paddock says the amendments will help government respond more efficiently as workforce needs change while maintaining fair and transparent registration processes.