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HD 310

An Act relative to professional licensure and citizenship

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Francisco Paulino

MA licensing boards may substitute ITINs or other identity documents for SSNs when granting professional licenses, broadening access for those without SSNs.

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Bill Summary · HD 310

Summary: HD 310 — An Act relative to professional licensure and citizenship

Overview

HD 310 proposes to modify the sufficiency of identity verification for applicants seeking occupational licenses in Massachusetts. The bill would allow applicants who are required to provide a Social Security Number (SSN) to instead use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or another document verifying identity, as determined by the licensing board. The change targets boards overseen by the Division of Occupational Licensure and by the Department of Public Health. The stated aim is to reduce barriers to licensure for individuals who may not have an SSN.

What the bill does (key provisions)

  • Amends Chapter 13 to create new Section 110:
    • Any applicant for an occupational license from a board of registration under the Division of Occupational Licensure that requires an SSN may substitute an ITIN or another identity-verifying document, as determined by the board.
  • Amends Chapter 112 to create new Section 290:
    • Any applicant for an occupational license from a board of registration under the Department of Public Health that requires an SSN may substitute an ITIN or another identity-verifying document, as determined by the board.
  • Both sections begin with the clause “Notwithstanding any general or special law or regulation to the contrary,” signaling the intent to supersede conflicting requirements when applying these substitutions.

Who is affected

  • Applicants for professional licensure in Massachusetts who would otherwise be required to provide an SSN.
  • Specifically, license boards under:
    • The Division of Occupational Licensure (DOOL) for broad professional licensing boards.
    • The Department of Public Health (DPH) for health-related licensure boards.
  • Potentially beneficial to individuals without SSNs (e.g., certain immigrant populations who hold ITINs) while maintaining the boards’ authority to determine acceptable alternative documents.

Timing, process, and implementation

  • The bill adds new sections to two chapters, creating a framework for accepting ITINs or other identity documents in place of SSNs.
  • Each affected board retains the discretion to determine which documents are acceptable, within the new statutory allowance.
  • The text includes “Notwithstanding” language to ensure the substitution is permissible even if other laws would require an SSN.
  • No specific effective date is stated in the text provided; typical implementation would follow passage and regulatory guidance.

Potential impacts and considerations

  • Access and equity: Could broaden licensure access for individuals lacking SSNs, facilitating participation in regulated professions.
  • Identity verification: Requires boards to establish clear criteria for acceptable ITINs or alternative documents to ensure integrity and prevent misuse.
  • Privacy: May alleviate some privacy concerns by allowing non-SSN identifiers.
  • Administrative considerations: Boards may need to update application forms, guidance, and internal verification processes to accommodate ITINs and other documents.

Background

  • The bill mirrors prior consideration in Massachusetts (similar matter previously filed as House 3563 in 2023-2024).
  • Introduced as HD 310 and filed in January 2025 during the 194th General Court session.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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