Group formed to focus on job-license ‘red tape’

A group of legislators, bureaucrats and consumer representatives will search for ways to reduce “red tape” in obtaining occupational licenses in Arkansas, Gov. Asa Hutchinson announced Friday.

The Red Tape Reduction Working Group will make recommendations to Hutchinson in the fall on any barriers that can be eliminated without compromising consumer safety.

“I want to do everything reasonable to help all Arkansans have the opportunity to pursue an occupation or start a business,” the Republican governor said in a statement. “Where possible, I want to cut the red tape and costs of entering a new occupation. In some occupations, testing and a license are necessary for the safety of consumers. But the cost of a license or certificate for some trades may be an unnecessary financial barrier for someone who wants to pursue that occupation.”

Occupational licenses are required for certain vocations, like medical professionals, plumbers and cosmetologists, with the intent of protecting consumers. Critics say some licensing requirements are overburdensome, protect incumbents and drive up the cost of services.

The panel includes five members from each legislative chamber and five other appointees.

The senators include Republicans John Cooper of Jonesboro, Missy Irvin of Mountain View, Jane English of North Little Rock, Trent Garner of El Dorado and Bart Hester of Cave Springs.

The representatives are LeAnne Burch, D-Monticello; Bruce Cozart; R-Hot Springs; Milton Nicks Jr., D-Marion; Jeff Williams, R-Springdale; and Richard Womack, R-Arkadelphia.

The governor’s appointees are Bill Gossage, the governor’s deputy chief of staff for external affairs; Charisse Childers, director of Arkansas Career Education; Leon Jones Jr., director of Arkansas Department of Labor; and consumer representatives Lula Dixon and Bob Kucheravy.

Cooper and Cozart were named co-chairmen.