License to Work

By Austin Hein

Job creation is among the most pivotal topics in American politics. People want and need to work to provide for their families and themselves. Unfortunately, the government has increasingly put restrictions on the workforce. Today, nearly a quarter of all jobs in the United States require occupational licensure — up from 5% sixty years ago. This trend is a concern, especially in a state like Wyoming, which has struggled to encourage workers to come to – or remain in – the state.

Occupational licenses have been deemed necessary in a wide variety of fields - from medical work to hair-stylists. Occupational licensing is overseen by various state government-run organizations, many of which are filled with bureaucrats and unnecessary regulations. Some states, like Arizona, are attempting to make occupational licensure more open and accessible. Arizona's governor, Doug Ducey, made it a priority to provide reciprocity to all occupational licenses in his state. Gov. Ducey worked with legislators to spawn HB2569, which would make Arizona's licensure boards recognize occupational licensing from other states. In plain terms, if you are a licensed hair-stylist in another state (say, Colorado) you can operate as a hair-stylist in Arizona.

Wyoming can and should consider similar reform in the near future. Opening up reciprocity for occupational licenses will encourage new people and new jobs to come to Wyoming. Wyoming should not penalize people for moving to their state by making their new residents go through another licensing process. Reciprocity for occupational licenses does not fix Wyoming's job creation woes, but it does help expand free enterprise and support those who are considering moving to the state. Occupational licensing needs a complete overhaul, in general, and reciprocity is a great first step for reform.