The Joint Blue Ribbon Committee Investigating Licensing Issues is expected to hold several meetings this year as it considers ways to reduce professional licensing glitches, costs and the amount of time it takes to process and review applications. Ideas include adopting more universal standards and making it easier to transfer licenses from other states and countries.

Nurses trying to practice in Pennsylvania have some of the longest waiting times in the nation. After wading endlessly through red tape, some have given up and left, worsening the staffing shortage.