SALT LAKE CITY?A bill that would require geologists to be licensed passed the 2002 legislative General Session.

Sponsored by Rep. Ralph Becker, the measure requires professional geologists to have a college degree and work experience in the field.

The bill provides for a five member professional licensing board made up of the state geologist, three professional geologists and a member of the public.

Proponents said licensing will mean Utah geologists won’t have to pay for out-of-state credentials.

Utah currently does not require licenses of out-of state geologists.