Legislation sponsored by State Senator Omar Aquino expanding licensing opportunities and procedures for internationally trained and licensed health care professionals was signed into law Friday. “The demand for qualified health care professionals in our state will continue to grow in the coming years,” said Aquino (D-Chicago). “This law creates a licensing liaison to serve as a resource for international applicants and streamline the process so we can continue to grow our health care workforce.” Under Aquino’s legislation, the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation will create an Office of the Ombudsman for International Applicants. This office will employ a full-time licensing liaison for international applicants to assist applicants in answering questions and providing information on education requirements for licenses. During the 102nd General Assembly, Aquino supported a law creating the Task Force on Internationally-Licensed Health Care Professionals to explore strategies for removing barriers to licensure for international health care professionals. The Task Force identified the need to create a full-time position at IDFPR dedicated to helping applicants navigate the process of gaining licensure in Illinois. House Bill 2948 was signed into law Friday and takes effect Jan. 1, 2024.