Occupational licenses are government permission slips that keep too many Iowans from entering the workforce. And they’ve grown out of control!
In the 1950s, just 1 of every 20 workers needed an occupational license. Today, that number has grown to 1 of every 4. Today, Iowa licenses more professions than almost any other state in the country!
Government licenses often come with red tape that is burdensome for people to cut through. This can include training requirements that are unnecessary, expensive and time-consuming.
Research has shown us that most of these permission slips do nothing to improve quality or protect public safety and keep Iowans who don't have means and resources from working jobs for which they are otherwise qualified.
Send lawmakers a message and urge them to re-evaluate current government licensing restrictions and cut the red tape!