CLEAR

North Carolina proposes changes to teacher licensing

The Professional Educator Preparation and Standards Commission and the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction have proposed a new licensing model for teachers, Pathways to Excellence for Teaching Professionals. The model would include seven levels for teachers, beginning with Apprentice Teacher and advancing to Advanced Teacher Leader, with different requirements and different salary amounts at each level. Further input will be solicited from educators before the model is voted on by the State Board of Education.

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Opinion article on downgrading professional licensing

An opinion piece published on governing.com highlights recent economic research on occupational licensure as a counter to the argument for "downgrading" professional licensure. The research from Oxford Economics and the Alliance for Responsible Professional Licensing shows that licensure is associated with 6.5% higher wages on average and that licensure narrows the gender wage gap by one-third and the racial wage gap by one-half in fields requiring advanced education and training. The article makes a distinction between occupational licensing and professional licensing, urging that one size does not fit all for licensing reform.

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Ohio: testimony supporting universal occupational licensing recognition

The Buckeye Institute has submitted testimony to the Ohio House in support of House Bill 509:

"Some of the bill’s changes with respect to funeral directors and embalmers, for example, should help streamline apprenticeship opportunities for those looking to enter the field. The bill wisely eliminates many temporary licenses; aligns more closely with continuing education requirements for pharmacists; and makes fees, continuing education and licensing renewal for school psychologists more consistent with those in surrounding states. These changes along with universal licensing recognition for out-of-state licenses, will improve Ohio’s overall occupational licensure environment, making the state fairer and more attractive to professionals."

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British Columbia considers consolidating legal professional regulators

The Ministry of the Attorney General in British Columbia has announced proposed changes to the regulatory framework for legal professionals. Under the proposal, regulation of lawyers, notaries, and paralegals would be consolidated under a single statute and a single regulator. A new mandate clarifying the duty to protect the public would be established. Scopes of practice would also be updated and clearly defined. Further details of the proposal are under development in consultation with the Law Society of BC, the Society of Notaries Public of BC, and representatives of the paralegal profession.

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Legislative and policy trends upcoming in 2022

An article by Venable LLP outlines ten anticipated trends for the 2022 legislative session that could have an impact on occupational licensing boards.

Worker mobility legislation - Given the Biden administration's focus on addressing impediments to worker and economic mobility, the article suggests state regulatory bodies consider the uniformity of licensing requirements across the US.

Antitrust concerns - The article suggests a review of regulatory structures and level of state supervision to address continued antitrust enforcement.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion  - The article suggests considering whether eligibility rules, education requirements, and other licensing criteria truly serve their purposes or are arbitrary and overly burdensome.

COVID-19 modifications - Licensing boards will need to be prepared for which changes legislatures will roll back or introduce for permanent adoption, particularly around telemedicine.

Read for the rest of the list.

Vermont's licensing reform initiatives

Chris Winters, Vermont Deputy Secretary of State, details several policies the Office of Professional Regulation has implemented to reduce barriers for entry into regulated professions. Fast-track licensing allows any professional who has been licensed in good standing for three years in another jurisdiction to obtain a Vermont license. Recognizing credit for military experience, Vermont offers a direct path from some medic classifications to related licensure. Professions such as funeral directors, cosmetologists, and pharmacy technicians can follow an experience-based apprenticeship pathway to licensure.

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Ohio think tank outlines licenses that could be eliminated

The Buckeye Institute has issued a report identifying more than 60 occupational licenses that should be eliminated or reformed as part of the effort to reduce business regulations to make the state more economically competitive. A bill currently under consideration would cut business regulations by 30% by 2024.

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New Mexico executive order for regulatory review

New Mexico's governor has signed an executive order directing the Regulation and Licensing department and the Economic Development Department to conduct a comprehensive review of the state's rules and regulations, with the goal of a more streamlined and business-friendly licensing process. The review will specifically look at licensure requirements that may disproportionately affect and burden underserved communities. One specific complaint to be addresses is the long timeline to approve construction-related permits. The regulatory review is part of a larger economic planning effort.

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UK: consultation on architect regulation

The UK government has opened a consultation inviting architects to share their views on the regulatory framework for architecture and the role of the Architects Registration Board. The online survey also includes questions about how to improve diversity and innovation. The consultation is part of a larger review launched by the housing minister aimed at modernizing regulation and building a stronger and more sustainable industry. Initial findings of the review are due by spring 2022, with an outcome expected in summer 2022.

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Ontario College of Teachers: new governance structure and recruitment of Council members

The Ontario College of Teachers is undergoing a legislated transition to a new, modernized governance structure. The new structure is intended to streamline College operations to be more effective and efficient. The modernization includes the appointment of Council and committee members to include an equal number of licensees and members of the public. Dr. Derek Haime, OCT, Registrar and CEO, states, "Our new governing body will be more inclusive and better reflect and serve Ontario’s diverse population, capturing a wide range of expertise, skills, knowledge and perspectives."

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