Iowa Legislature once again imposes unnecessary job licensing

[TexasTowelie]

One-third of Iowa’s workforce must obtain a license from state government to earn a living. This is a higher percentage than any other state and three times higher than some states, according to a 2015 White House report on occupational licensing.

Iowans need approval from Big Brother to legally pluck an eyebrow, massage a back, interpret sign language and perform dozens of other tasks for pay. Some licenses have nothing to do with protecting public health and safety and everything to do with protecting current industry workers from competition.

In short, state-mandated job licensing requirements have run amok in Iowa. Both Democrats and Republicans, including former Gov. Terry Branstad, have acknowledged this. Overzealous and frequently unnecessary government requirements stifle economic growth, make it more difficult for Iowans to get jobs and discourage entrepreneurs.

If you want to open a bar for blow-drying hair, you abandon the idea when you find out wielding a dryer requires 2,100 hours of training at a for-profit cosmetology school. Small business owners offering simple teeth-whitening services were forced to close because dentists persuaded the Iowa Legislature that people need years of formal training to bleach teeth.

Read more: https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/opinion/editorials/2018/04/26/iowa-legislature-once-again-imposes-unnecessary-job-licensing/546260002/