HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION 112

(By Delegates Howell, Arvon, Atkinson, Criss, Diserio, Eldridge, Ferro, Hamrick, Hill, Lewis, Lynch, Marcum, Martin, Maynard, Paynter, Pyles, Queen, Romine, C., and Sypolt)

[Originating in the Committee on Government Organization; March 31, 2017]

Requesting the Joint Committee on Government and Finance study the possible negative impact imposed on individuals created by unnecessary barriers to employment created by occupational licensing requirements.

Whereas, Securing gainful employment is a critical component of a fulfilling life; and

Whereas, West Virginians deserve to have reasonably limited barriers to entrepreneurial success; and

Whereas, In 2016 West Virginia was indicated to have the 17^th most burdensome occupational licensing structure in the nation; and

Whereas, Limiting barriers to market entry will create jobs and help diversify our economy; and

Whereas, It is in the state’s interest to expand employment opportunities for all West Virginians; and

Whereas, Many occupational licensing requirements are outdated, unnecessary or overly burdensome on individuals; Therefore, be it

Resolved by the Legislature of West Virginia:

That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance is hereby requested to study the possible negative impact imposed on individuals created by unnecessary barriers to employment created by occupational licensing requirements; and, be it

Further Resolved, That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance report to the regular session of the Legislature, 2018, on its findings, conclusions, and recommendations, together with drafts of any legislation necessary to effectuate its recommendations; and, be it

Further Resolved, That the expenses necessary to conduct this study and to prepare and draft necessary legislation be paid from legislative appropriations to the Joint Committee on Government and Finance.