A state-issued license often serves as a hallmark of quality and trust in many professions. For instance, it signals that an individual has met minimum standards for education, training, and competence. This, in turn, provides a layer of protection for the public. However, a growing deregulation movement is challenging this status quo.
To reduce barriers to employment and promote economic growth, many states are now eliminating or reducing occupational licensing rules. Although this may help some people enter a field more easily, it also raises serious questions about consumer safety and accountability. Consequently, as fields lose licensing requirements, the public is left wondering who they can truly trust.
The erosion of licensing standards is causing concern in several professions. Specifically, here are six examples.
1. Interior Designers
Previously, many states protected the term “interior designer.” This required individuals to get a formal education and pass a rigorous exam to use the title. As a result, it distinguished them from unlicensed decorators and ensured they knew about building codes, fire safety, and accessibility standards. However, several states have recently deregulated the profession, so now anyone can call themselves an interior designer. Therefore, it is harder for consumers to identify qualified professionals trained to design safe and functional spaces, not just beautiful ones.
2. Barbers and Cosmetologists
States have long justified licensing for barbers and cosmetologists on public health grounds. Indeed, proper training is essential to prevent spreading infections and diseases from unsanitized tools. Despite this, some states have passed laws to lower required training hours. They have even eliminated licensing for certain services like hair braiding. While proponents argue this opens up opportunities, critics worry it could lead to more health and safety violations in salons and barbershops.
3. Funeral Directors
The funeral industry is sensitive because it deals with vulnerable families. Traditionally, licensing for funeral directors ensured they followed strict ethical and health standards. This included proper handling of human remains and transparent pricing. Now, some states are considering relaxing these requirements, which has alarmed consumer advocacy groups. Specifically, they fear that deregulation could invite predatory practices and emotional exploitation. It could also create serious public health risks if standards fall.
4. Landscape Architects
Landscape architecture involves more than just planting trees and gardens. In fact, licensed landscape architects train in complex areas like site planning, drainage, and environmental conservation. Their work is crucial for preventing problems such as soil erosion and flooding. Nevertheless, some states have targeted this profession for deregulation, arguing that a license is an unnecessary barrier. However, professionals in the field contend that eliminating licensing could lead to poorly designed spaces, posing risks to the environment and public safety.
5. Auctioneers
Auctioneering may not seem to require strict oversight. However, licensing has traditionally protected consumers from fraud. For example, states often require licensed auctioneers to be bonded and use escrow accounts for client money. This process ensures sellers get paid and buyers receive their items. Unfortunately, as states remove these licensing rules, it becomes easier for fraudulent operators to emerge. They can take people’s money or property and then disappear, leaving consumers with little recourse.
6. Interpreters for the Deaf
A qualified interpreter is a critical communication link for the deaf community, especially in medical and legal settings. In fact, a single mistake in interpretation can have life-altering consequences. Licensing standards ensure interpreters have the linguistic and ethical training to work accurately. For this reason, deregulation in this field deeply concerns deaf advocates. They argue it will lower service quality and put a vulnerable population at risk.
The Double-Edged Sword of Deregulation
The debate over occupational licensing is complex, pitting economic freedom against public protection. On one hand, removing unnecessary red tape can be beneficial. On the other hand, removing licensing for skilled professions carries significant risks. For example, it places a greater burden on consumers to vet a professional’s qualifications. As this trend continues, public trust may erode. Ultimately, this leaves both consumers and qualified practitioners in a more precarious position.
Do you think reducing licensing requirements for professions helps or hurts consumers more?
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The post 6 Professions That Are Losing Licensing Requirements—and Trust appeared first on Budget and the Bees.
