Excerpt:
Occupational licensing requires workers in certain professions to obtain permission from the government before they can practice their trade. This permission often involves completing specific educational requirements, passing exams, and paying fees. While licensing was initially limited to professions where public safety is directly at risk, such as physicians and engineers, its reach has expanded significantly.
In Texas, licensing is now required for a wide array of professions, including barbers, interior designers, and even animal control officers. According to a report by the Archbridge Institute, Texas ranks poorly in national comparisons due to the sheer number and burden of its licensing requirements.
Read the full article at Texas Policy Research.
Read the 2024 State Occupational Licensing Index report here.