* Background is here if you need it. This took way too long, but IDFPR looks to be on track. Implementation is key, however. So, we’ll just have to see…

The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (“IDFPR”) announced today, in addition to modernizing outdated processes, it has reached an agreement to secure a new professional licensing system for individuals whose careers require a license to work in Illinois. Through an approximately $9 million investment over the next three years by the Pritzker Administration and the General Assembly, IDFPR will partner with NIC Licensing Solutions, LLC, an industry leading digital government service provider, to implement the new online system. […]

With a focus on increased government transparency, the new licensing system will feature a user-friendly interface with improved communications and creates a streamlined review of license applications and fees. Prospective licensees will be notified electronically when applications are received, reviewed, and licenses are issued by the Department. IDFPR will immediately begin implementation of the new solution and all Departmental licensees will be transitioned to the new licensing system in six phases, ensuring every application and fee payment will be available online.

“With health care workers coming to Illinois in record numbers, this long overdue modernization is a critical first step to ensure our state is fully equipped to meet our licensing demands with up-to-date and streamlined services,” said Rep. Bob Morgan (D-Deerfield). […]

NIC Licensing Solutions, LLC is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Tyler Technologies. Tyler currently provides Cloud-based solutions for more than 11,900 clients in all 50 states, including seven state agencies, 39 counties, and 67 local districts in Illinois. Additionally, Tyler provides the same services to several IDFPR sister-state agencies, including those in Alabama, Colorado, and Georgia.

IDFPR is responsible for the oversight and licensing of more than 1.2 million professionals in Illinois in over 120 different professions and over 300 license types, with a majority overseen by the Division of Professional Regulation (“DPR”). From the start of the Pritzker Administration, IDFPR witnessed an unprecedented and exponential increase in first-time applicants, as more professionals seek to work in Illinois.

* NASW Illinois…

The National Association of Social Workers, Illinois Chapter, congratulates the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) on its recent announcement that the state is finally moving forward with modernizing the professional licensing process in our state. The selection of NIC Licensing Solutions, LLC, as a partner in this effort is a promising step towards a more efficient, accessible, and user-friendly licensing system for all professionals in Illinois.

As representatives of the social work community, we are particularly encouraged by the potential this modernization holds for mental health professionals, many of whom have long relied on outdated paper applications. We strongly urge IDFPR to prioritize these professions in the transition to the new system. Streamlining the licensing process is crucial to enabling these professionals to enter the field promptly, especially as the state continues to face significant mental health workforce shortages.

We also encourage IDFPR to take this opportunity to review the current licensure requirements and consider eliminating any unnecessary steps, questions, or documents that may create unnessesary barriers for those fully qualified professionals seeking to serve the people of Illinois.

We look forward to seeing the positive impact of this initiative and remain committed to working with IDFPR to ensure that Illinois remains a leader in fostering a strong, ethical, and well-supported workforce in the mental health field.