Legislation to expedite the issuance of professional licenses passed the Illinois Senate on Wednesday.

State Senator Patrick Joyce said the legislation was introduced after hearing word from local residents that the professional licensing process was taking too long.

Under the legislation, IDFPR will be required to process applications within four weeks as long as there were no deficiencies submitted. The measure would expedite licenses for health care workers, accountants, speech pathologists and other professionals.

“New professionals are waiting months to receive a license that they are qualified for and need to enter the workforce,” Joyce said.

Joyce believe this legislation will help speed up the process. Senate Bill 670 moves to the House for further consideration.