The Mackinac Center for Public Policy announced on March 30 that it supports a bipartisan measure aimed at preserving licenses for thousands of physicians in Michigan. The organization said this step is important for protecting access to healthcare and supporting professional mobility within the state.
The proposed legislation, House Bill 5455, seeks to make it easier for qualified professionals who are already licensed and in good standing elsewhere to serve patients and communities in Michigan. Supporters argue that such measures could help address workforce shortages and improve access to services.
“Reciprocity works for doctors, but it should work for every licensed professional,” said Jarrett Skorup, vice president of marketing and communications at the Mackinac Center for Public Policy. “By not recognizing licenses from other states, Michigan is missing out on thousands of people ready to serve Michigan families. Outdated rules are keeping many sidelined, and universal licensing recognition is the simple fix Michigan’s workforce and economy need.”
The Mackinac Center has advocated for universal licensing reciprocity as a way to strengthen the state’s workforce by reducing barriers faced by qualified professionals moving into or continuing their careers in Michigan. According to the organization, expanding reciprocity would also make the state more competitive.
Supporters say this legislative approach demonstrates that policymakers can both protect public safety and modernize rules that limit opportunities. They believe similar changes should be considered across all professions so that those who are qualified elsewhere do not have to restart their licensure process upon relocating.
The Mackinac Center called on lawmakers to continue building on this momentum by extending reciprocity across other professions as well, with reforms intended to allow licensed workers quicker entry into Michigan’s economy.
