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Buckeye Institute Pushes for Major Changes to Ohio's Licensing Requirements

The Buckeye Institute wants to scrap licenses like 'tough man' and refrigeration contractor. Its six-year campaign could make it easier for Ohioans to work in their chosen professions.

This is a collage image of a bicycles and helmets.
This is a collage image of a bicycles and helmets.

Buckeye Institute Pushes for Major Changes to Ohio's Licensing Requirements

The Buckeye Institute is advocating for significant changes to Ohio's licensing process. The think tank, led by research fellow Greg R. Lawson, has identified nearly 40 professional licenses that could be eliminated or reformed. Lawson's proposal, currently under consideration by the House General Government Committee, aims to streamline the licensing process and boost Ohio's economic competitiveness.

Lawson's review of Ohio's licensing landscape found 19 licenses that should be eliminated altogether. These include less common licenses such as 'tough man' license, refrigeration contractor, and motor vehicle emission inspection professional. Lawson believes these licenses pose unnecessary barriers to earning a living in Ohio.

In addition, Lawson proposes revising another 20 licensing requirements to align with those of neighboring states. While the specific details of these proposed modifications are not publicly available, the aim is to make Ohio's licensing regime more in line with its peers.

The Buckeye Institute has been pushing for these changes since 2019, leading the effort to end or reduce requirements for nearly 100 different licenses. Lawson's latest proposal is part of a six-year campaign to make Ohio's licensing process more competitive and less burdensome.

The House General Government Committee is now considering Lawson's bill to establish a standalone licensing process for pharmacy benefit managers and review other licensing requirements. If enacted, these changes could significantly reduce the regulatory burden on Ohio professionals, potentially making it easier for people to earn a living in the state.

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