AFPI-Georgia Highlights Impact of Military Spouse Licensing Act Following DOJ Settlement with Georgia Licensing Boards

Washington, D.C.—Rebecca Yardley, Chair of the America First Policy Institute’s (AFPI) Georgia Chapter, released the following statement on the Department of Justice’s settlement with Georgia professional licensing boards for violations of the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act:

“The Department of Justice’s $3 million settlement with Georgia’s professional licensing boards underscores a serious failure that placed unnecessary burdens on our nation’s servicemembers and their families. As the DOJ found, military spouses were denied or delayed the ability to work due to licensing barriers, limiting their economic opportunity and financial stability.

In 2024, AFPI-Georgia researched policy solutions and had discussions with lawmakers to address precisely these kinds of injustices. This legislation drafted by Rep. Bethany Ballard and signed into law by Governor Kemp became effective in January 2025. The Military Spouse Licensing Act ensures that military spouses with valid, out-of-state licenses can get to work quickly without navigating unnecessary red tape for Georgia’s roughly 42,000 military spouses. This kind of America First policy sets a national standard for reducing barriers to work.

Georgia is now leading the policy debate. The success of the Military Spouse Licensing Act has already informed a model policy being advanced across the country, demonstrating how strong state leadership can drive meaningful policies at both the state and federal levels. AFPI will continue to champion policies that honor the sacrifices of our servicemembers by ensuring their families have the opportunity to work, thrive, and succeed.”