Licensing

Justice Gorsuch Criticizes Excessive State Licensing Requirements: Calls for Reform

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Washington, D.C. – As state legislatures across the United States convene, a critical point of debate surrounds the proliferation of occupational licensing laws, which some argue have become overly burdensome. Supreme Court Justice Neil Gorsuch recently highlighted the issue, underscoring the balance between protecting public safety and avoiding economic barriers. Occupational licenses, intended to safeguard consumer health and safety, now extend far beyond the medical and legal fields. In many states, professions including hairdressers, floral arrangers, and interior designers require a license. According to a White House report released during the Obama administration, the percentage … Read more

State Bar Fee on the Rise: Lawyers to Face $553 Annual Licensing Cost in 2020

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In a recent decision that will impact legal professionals across the state, legislators have approved an increment in the annual licensing fees for practicing attorneys. By 2025, lawyers can expect to pay $553 for their annual licenses, following a $88 increase. This decision materialized during the latest deliberations held by the Senate Judiciary Committee this Tuesday. The resolution to raise fees comes after much negotiation between lawmakers and bar trustees. Originally, bar officials had proposed a $125 increase, aiming predominantly to address salary increments for bar employees amidst rising operational costs. Lawmakers had initially countered … Read more

North Carolina’s Strict Occupational Licensing Laws Stifle Economic Growth and Opportunities

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RALEIGH, North Carolina — The state of North Carolina may be hindering its future economic performance by imposing strict occupational licensing requirements. In order to enter many professions in the state, individuals must possess specific education credentials, undergo a certain amount of training, or pass licensure exams. While it is common for states to license certain professions like physicians and civil engineers, North Carolina stands out by requiring licenses for occupations such as eyelash technicians, apprentice manicurists, and drama movement therapists. In recent rankings of state licensing laws, North Carolina ranked poorly. A report by … Read more