Michigan House Passes Darany Bill to Help Military Veterans

The Michigan House of Representatives passed House Bill 4754 that allows certain military experience as basis for receiving a mechanical license.

State Rep. George T. Darany, D-Dearborn, said the bill would allow military experience to be taken into account when applying for a contractor's license under the Forbes Mechanical Contractors Act. That act licenses contractors engaged in heating and cooling, refrigeration, fire suppression, and other related specialties.

HB 4754 was passed by the House with unanimous support on June 13.

"Michigan's military men and women are some of the most talented and skilled individuals in the state," said Darany. "This legislation will allow our military members to apply this experience when trying to further their career after service."

State law requires that an applicant for examination of a mechanical contractor's license has a minimum of three years' experience. Under the bill, the term "experience" would include experience acquired while serving as an active member of the armed forces, as long as they are not dishonorably discharged. Veterans would have to submit an application for licensure and an affidavit from their military superior documenting their professional experience.

The bill will now move to the Senate for consideration. The Senate adjourned for its summer recess last week and will return to Lansing in August.

"I want to thank my colleagues in the House for supporting this legislation and  I look forward to working with the members of the Senate to see that this legislation is signed into law by the governor," Darany said. "Our brave military individuals have sacrificed an incredible amount for our country and they should not have to face unnecessary obstacles in their career when returning home."