HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah -- A newly enacted Utah law provides support for Department of Defense civilian employees and their families as they relocate to the state, offering benefits similar to those available for military personnel.
The legislation, S.B. 17, signed into law this year, grants exemptions from occupational licensing requirements for DoD employees and their spouses, allowing them to continue working in their professions without needing to reapply for a license when moving from another state. Military service members and their spouses already benefit from similar exemptions, and this law extends those privileges to civilian employees of the DoD.
It also ensures in-state tuition eligibility at Utah colleges and universities for DoD employees and their families. This provision complements H.B. 142 - Service Member and Veteran Amendments, which grants in-state tuition to military service members, veterans, and their dependents, removing residency barriers that often create financial obstacles for military families.
Additionally, the law helps ease K-12 school enrollment requirements for children of DoD employees, reducing delays and making the transition into Utah schools smoother.
With S.B. 17 now in place, military families and DoD employees can expect fewer disruptions as they relocate, allowing them to maintain careers and education with greater stability. The law also includes technical revisions to ensure alignment with existing statutes, reinforcing the state's commitment to supporting those who serve in both military and civilian capacities.