Some very good news for Ohio taxpayers just in time for the holidays. Occupational licensing reform has passed both chambers.
As the clock ticked towards the end of legislative session this week, the Senate concurred with the House’s amended version of occupational licensing reform legislation, sending the measure to Governor Kasich’s desk.
Senate Bill 255, when enacted, will create a stringent review process for existing occupational licenses, and require newly proposed licenses are analyzed to show whether they address a legitimate safety need, will add costs for consumers, and more.
The legislation, sponsored by Senator Rob McColley, will help boost the economy, make it easier for people to find work – especially lower income workers, and people moving into the state. It also will make it easier for former offenders who have served their time and are looking to reintegrate into society to get a job, and also to avoid wasting time and money pursuing a license that a board will likely deny due to their past conviction.
A number of states are advancing occupational licensing reform with an eye towards interstate compatibility, and this measure puts Ohio in a good place on that mark as well.
Read more from Ohioans for Tax Reform on this issue HERE.