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Senator raises concerns over constitutionality of Whitmer’s new education department

Last year, MiLeap was not ripe for constitutional review. Now it could be

… education-focused department is constitution. The Senate Appropriations Committee heard a presentation on March 6 by Emily Laidlaw, director of the Child Care Licensing Bureau within the new Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential, or MiLEAP. Sen. Thomas A. Albert, R-Lowell, raised concerns … more

Michigan bill demands 750 training hours for estheticians

Bill raises barrier to entry in three career fields

… passage of board examinations. The occupational licensing bill is sponsored by Sen. Sam Singh, D-East Lansing. … on state or local government.” Occupational licensing is a barrier to entry to career fields. Senate … state population, are subject to occupational licensingmore

Bring back the public benefit

If Whitmer is cutting our costs, why are we all paying more?

… They can design poverty alleviation programs that help people who need help. A polity built around the public’s benefit wouldn’t have occupational licenses that create a barrier to entry without protecting the public. Or police union contracts that keep police from basic accountability. Or budgets that … more

Top 10 CapCon stories for 2023

Tales of government activism gone wrong

… area.  1. Nearly 1 million Michiganders are subject to occupational licensing laws, Oct. 14. Occupational licensing has created a shortage in several occupations. There are ways to fix the … more

Michigan population council wants licensing reform, Whitmer doesn’t

Governor vetoed reform similar to the one her own council is recommending

… presented with a chance to allow for faster licensing of credentialed nurses and psychologists licensed … would have had Michigan join other states in licensing compacts for nurses and psychologists. In her … a while before we know whether occupational licensing reform has a champion among lawmakers. Whitmer … more

Park Township short-term rental owners win court injunction

Township ban will be paused until case resumes in August 2024

… asked the township to work with them to craft reasonable regulations and licensing requirements. So far, township trustees have refused, he said. Allen suggested a system of annual licenses, costing up to $500, for short-term rentals. This, he said, would provide … more

In Michigan, regulations contribute to high housing costs

Half as many housing permits were issued in 2022 as in 2005 in Michigan

… Public Policy illustrates how licensing requirements affect housing. … maintaining housing require licensing. The state’s many occupational licenses increase costs to the consumer. … hired contractor must have a license. The contractor must have … must pay a $70 fee for the license. If a homeowner wants to … more

Michigan township’s ban on short-term rentals brings lawsuit

Park Township’s enforcement of long-neglected ban began in October. Litigation soon followed.

… defend the ban. The township has been enforcing the ban, Allen said, adding that it sent someone to various residential properties to record the license plate numbers of the cars located there. He also told CapCon that this person had contacted the owners of those vehicles to ask if they were renting … more

Nearly 1 million Michiganders are subject to occupational licensing laws

Mackinac Center forum considers occupational licensing and its discontents

… in reforming occupational licensing, as the National Conference … problems of occupational licensing, and experts from the Mackinac … “Occupational Hazard: State Licensing Laws in Michigan,” which … requirements tied to occupational licensing can reduce the supply of … moral-character requirements in licensing schemes. The country suffers … more

House committee raises national security concerns with Ford partnership

Rep. Walberg of Michigan signs on to letter worrying that Ford will take a back seat to Chinese company CATL

… sees the CATL partnership at BlueOval Battery Park as bringing on that dependency. The committee cites a New York Times report that Ford will be licensing technology from CATL, not creating it. “We seek to learn more about whether this partnership, and others like it, will potentially exacerbate our … more

Ann Arbor firefighter wins appeal, receives unemployment benefits

Firefighter to get benefits after city fails to show at hearing

… Rugg’s claim for unemployment benefits, citing misconduct under the Michigan Employment Security Act. Rugg filed an appeal with the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs. He won a reversal June 19 from Administrative Law Judge Denise McNulty. Denise McNulty noted that courts have defined “misconduct” … more

Congressional panels investigate Ford’s ties to Chinese company

Committe chairs claim ‘significant portion’ of BlueOval Battery Park jobs will be filled by workers brought from China

… while collecting tax credits and flowing funds back to CATL through the licensing agreement,” Gallagher and Smith wrote. They added: “If Ford is using a licensing agreement to maximize benefits to itself or CATL at the expense of the … more

Gretchen Whitmer’s Michigan: Red tape and orange barrels

Michigan can’t fix every problem, but it can control the controllable, starting here

… highest in the nation. Lower energy rates and provide reliable energy. Stop the push for unreliable renewable energy. Address the 160 occupational licensing requirements that prevent many people from entering a career field. Reinstate right-to-work, which provides better economic outcomes for workers … more

Barriers to entry: Occupational licensing laws hold Michigan back

About 160 occupations in Michigan now require a license

… quality haircut? Occupational licensing creates a hindrance to economic … it impossible to thrive. Licensing imposes a range of requirements … services for consumers. While licensing has a role in the society … has extended the scope of licensing requirements beyond what … in Michigan now require a license. But for many of these professions, … more

Despite billions in corporate welfare, Michigan’s jobs market still back of the pack

The Michigan economy since the COVID-19 pandemic has not been a pretty picture

… they can lower the income tax rate for everyone. They can improve tax rules to encourage business growth. They can eliminate harmful occupational licensing requirements.” Four states have fared worse than Michigan in job recovery: New York, Maine, Hawaii and Maryland. Thirty-one states have fully recovered … more

A picture is worth three words: Character is destiny

Photo of 2001 swearing-in ceremony captures troubled state of Michigan in 2023

… of the House in 2004, Johnson started a lobbying firm in 2005. In 2017, then-Gov. Rick Snyder appointed Johnson as chair of the Medical Marijuana Licensing Board. That’s where things got out of hand. The News reported in February that Johnson not only accepted, but requested, a $75,000 loan from a man … more

Between Lansing runs, senator sat on board of nonprofit that got $5M earmark

Singh ran for state senate seat while sitting on board of nonprofit that received workforce grant

… for programs including, but not limited to, marketing and attracting, licensing, credentialing, placing, training, and accessing education to international … Global Detroit. Global Detroit’s listing on the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs still names Singh as one of its directors. Singh … more

The people we serve

You don’t agree with the Mackinac Center on everything. But you agree with us on something. Let’s talk about those things.

… government hoops when trying to get her salon off the ground. The aspiring worker who faces months or years of hoop-jumping to meet the government’s licensing, training and certification requirements. The freshman legislator who feels steamrolled by an agenda of government control and needs data to fight … more

Energy reliability is not on the agenda in the Michigan Legislature

None of the 3 energy-related bills submitted in 2023 would improve energy reliability in Michigan

… Michigan Legislature. A House bill would prohibit local bans on natural gas, and a Senate bill is identical. A third bill is about occupational licensing. None of the three is about improving Michigan’s energy reliability. Majority House Floor Leader Abraham Aiyash, D-Hamtramck, has publicly announced … more

Hohman: Michigan economy needs to catch up

Michigan hands out corporate welfare to cover up for a poor business climate. It doesn’t work.

… business tax climate. Lawmakers can change the tax treatment of a firm’s equipment purchases, so as to encourage growth. They can eliminate occupational licenses that serve more as a barrier to entry than a way to protect public health. They can encourage cheap and reliable electricity. Related reading: Are … more

Michigan’s occupational licensing regime: not the best, not the worst

State ranking remains at 30 in report on requirements governments impose on job-seekers

… looked at the occupational licensing requirements of the 50 states, … by much. An occupational license is a kind of permission slip … worker who wants to secure a license must undergo a certain number … at the burden a state’s licensing requirements put on workers. … at the average fee for a license and the average number of … more

Whitmer requests federal aid to reopen Palisades nuclear plant, but Granholm says no

Palisades nuclear plant supplied 15% of Michigan’s clean energy

… Palisades could have continued to supply reliable, clean, and safe electricity supplies for at least the last nine years that remained on its operating license, if not many more. Instead, by closing reliable generation and focusing ever more of our energy supply on weather-dependent renewables, we deliberately … more

Ottawa County Township moves toward restricting short-term rentals

Park Township discusses banning unlicensed short-term rentals of homes, limiting number of rentals

… lottery for a limited number of licenses. Michigan Capitol Confidential … their property would need a license, with a limited number of licenses available. Owners who rent … township would choose who gets a license through a lottery system, … even if his family wins the license lottery, the regulations of … more

Kalamazoo may need No. 2 plan as state moves to override city’s repeal of decency law

Council member blames public defecation on systemic inequities

… require local governments to enact a public decency ordinance. It has, though, overriden local decisions in other areas, including occupational licensing, preventing local governments from imposing stricter standards. Hall’s legislation pass does not list penalties a local government would face for … more

Student loan borrowers get $10K bailout, trade school students get regulations

Michigan’s state government leans on the trade school student, and feds bail out the student loan borrower

… training before obtaining a license, according to the Institute … require school or state licensing. Graduation requirements … almost always reflect state licensing requirements. In other words, … affected by the state’s licensing requirements. Michigan is … in America for exorbitant licensing requirements, according to … more

Michigan Secretary of State: 541K inactive voter registrations to be purged by 2025

In 2023, 102K will be cancelled, followed by another 439K in 2025, state says

… period it reviewed. After the audit was published, the Secretary of State started to reconcile the Qualified Voter List quarterly against the Driver’s License List, in addition to making weekly updates. Rollow explained that when someone dies, that person’s voter registration is cancelled immediately, once … more

Lawsuit alleging 26K dead on Michigan voter rolls will go on

SOS Benson has purged 330k dead voters from Qualified Voter List since 2019. How many remain?

… audit, it did not regularly reconcile the voter list from the Driver's License File. A federal lawsuit alleging that Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn … did not regularly reconcile the Qualified Voter List from the Driver's License List, the audit found. Jake Rollow, a spokesman for the Michigan Secretary … more

After state audit, Michigan Secretary of State purges dead from voter rolls quarterly

Jocelyn Benson's office now offers a post-audit certification, after audit found half of county clerks took no such training

… of State Jocelyn Benson did not regularly reconcile Michigan's Driver License File from its Qualified Voter File. This resulted in thousands of dead … Benson “did not perform periodic reconciliation” between the driver’s license file and the Qualified Voter File, which is the list of registered voters … more

How free are we really?

Nine hundred new laws are too many

… permit your friend to cut your hair for pay. What was the thought process behind this seemingly arbitrary number, or the decision to require the license at all? If I trust someone to cut my hair and that person screws it up, is this a life-threatening situation? Hair grows back, and that person would … more

In Kalamazoo, budding bureaucracy accompanies pot industry

In the world of government, today's coordinator is tomorrow's department

… 2022, the city has 21 cannabis businesses with 40 licenses. In 2023, there are 22 potential new businesses with 36 potential new licenses. That could add up to a possible new total of 41 potential businesses with 76 potential licenses that all require annual renewal, the city said. … more

Midland, Gladwin taxpayers could pay for 2020 flood for 30 years

The price tag of the Edenville Dam fix could hit $250 million. The counties are trying to collect $60 million over 30 years.

… dam, and not the safety issues that led to its involvement. As The Detroit News reported the day of the flood: Days after feds revoked the dam’s license to generate power, the state assumed oversight, inspected the dam and declared it and its spillways to be in “fair structural condition.” Over the … more

Will Implicit Bias Training Improve Health Care in Michigan?

Medical lobby says training will save lives; activist nurse worries it will push away talent

… Michigan’s 400,000-plus health care professionals, who now face a state requirement to take implicit bias training, through Michigan’s Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs. “New applicants for licensure or registration will need to complete a minimum of 2 hours of training, and applicants for … more

On the Menu In Detroit: A Heapin’ Helpin’ of Red Tape

City is among the nation’s worst in barriers for restaurant startups

… city are prevented from obtaining a business license.” Applicants must also say whether they have been convicted of a crime before getting a business license. The Institute for Justice report argues that … reducing the number of businesses that need city licenses, simplifying the process to obtain building permits, … more

Michigan Hair Shampooers Must Get A Cosmetology License That Requires 1,500 Hours of Training

But an EMT who helps critical-care patients needs only 194 hours to get a state license

For lack of a state license required to shampoo hair, a Holland … terms of the cosmetology license Shaketra Payne would need … occupation that does not require a license, unless one plans to teach … 500 hours of training and a license. It is unclear why a hair … must obtain a cosmetology license or work under someone who … more

City Lifts Psychic Ban Without Thinking of Future

State law prohibits Petoskey from licensing fortunetellers

… through imposing strict licensing requirements. A proposed … 18 meeting minutes. This licensing requirement would violate … cannot create new occupational licenses and that licensing requirements are now controlled … Warren and Bay City, have licensing restrictions for fortunetelling. … more

Lucky 8-Ball Says: Signs Point To Legal Trouble for Local Bans Of Fortune Tellers

The heartbreak of an inaccurate Ouija board

… 2010, anyone who charges money to tell a fortune must first apply for a license, undergo a police background check and pay annual fees of $160. Bay City … from mainstream religions a great deal of deference when it comes to licensing requirements and negligence lawsuits. As the Supreme Court of Utah has … more

Did The Crime, Served The Time — And Now He Can Make A Living

Scores of occupations require a Michigan license; until recently, this barred those with a record

… of the state occupational licensing law, Grennan would have been … obtaining a state-required license. And Michigan law imposes occupational license mandates on more than 160 … felony conviction obtain a license as long as it does not become … issue of public safety, the license does not have a direct relation … more

New Buffalo’s Mayor Takes Hardball Approach To Short-Term Rentals

Humphrey's opposition to Airbnb-type home rentals there has brought two federal lawsuits

… complaints within 30 minutes. It also demands that homeowners obtain and provide to the city the name and date of birth of renters as well as the license plate number of any vehicle on their rental property. Though Humphrey is opposed to short-term rentals, revenue from tourism is important to the … more

Detroit Repeals Some Burdensome Business And Occupational License Mandates

City piled its own rules and regs on top of state ones

… meeting, officials repealed some of these extra license requirements. The canceled mandates included ones … transportation companies. Thirty-four small business licenses will be discontinued, according to a Feb. 23 … add-on requirements, including the following licenses and fees, as identified in a city report last … more

New Buffalo’s Anti-Airbnb Mayor Is Warned, Cut The Cracks About Illinois People

Southwest Michigan beach town a popular getaway for Chicago area residents

… turn over to the city records containing the names, date of birth, and license plate numbers of their renters. Officials there say renters’ personal information … of nice land throughout the Midwest with their big egos, personalized license plates, and undisciplined snotty children. Often confused and believe the … more

Health News Site Searches For Doctors Who Are ‘Spreading COVID-19 Misinformation’

Kaiser Health News approaches Michigan’s licensing department

… states. Last August, a reporter for Kaiser Health News asked a Michigan licensing agency if it was investigating a cardiologist who appeared on the Joe … The Kaiser reporter, Victoria Knight, asked the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs if it was investigating Dr. Peter McCullough, a … more

Could Be Worse: Study Finds Michigan’s Regulatory Burden On Business Less Than Nearby States

Mercatus Center finds this to be the least-bad Great Lakes state

… agree that we should have regulations in place that directly protect the public,” he said. “Unfortunately, regulatory agencies — the state health, licensing, agriculture, economic development and other departments — have lots of incentive to add new rules and little incentive to get rid of them. Michigan … more

Just In Time For 2021 Inflation Spike, Michigan Gas Tax Getting Cost-Of-Living Increase

Levy was approved in 2015 when annual price increases were still modest

… trigger was part of a 2015 legislative deal. It included a motor fuel tax increase of 7.3 cents per gallon, a hike in the annual vehicle registration (license plate) tax, and an earmark of some state income tax revenue to road repairs. The deal was passed by the Republican-controlled legislature and signed … more

Michigan's Liquor Taxes Among the Stiffest in the Nation

… alcohol consumption. His studies found that – regardless of whether a state imposed heavy control, moderate control, light control, or just required a license – there is little correlation between regulation and public safety. It is even noted that Montana, the only heavy control state, had the third highest … more

City Demands Vacation Renters’ Data; Homeowners Question Its Security And More

‘Their rationale makes no sense’

Officials in a southwest Michigan community are requiring guests who stay at short-term rental property to submit their name, date of birth, license plate numbers and other information to the city. Homeowners who rent to them are skeptical and concerned the city can’t or won’t secure this personal information. … more

Secretary Of State Fines Motorists For Delayed Service, Blames Legislators

‘Until the law is changed by legislators, we are obligated to charge them’

… have an expired driver's license, and officials say there’s … appointment to renew his driver’s license. But the only appointment … birthday, by which point his license had expired. Hover said he … transfers, on-time renewed licenses, driver’s permits and other … makes photos on a driver’s license valid for 12 years instead … more

Audit: Evidence Lacking 40% Of Public School Educators Took Required Continuing Ed Courses

Department of Education created verification process only after audit found shortcoming

… they meet state requirements for renewing their license, according to a report from the state auditor … continuing education for each educator who seeks a license renewal, which is good for five years. But no … that educators follow state certification and licensing requirements. The Michigan Department of Education … more

Arrest Of Lockdown-Defying Restaurant Owner Violated Court Guidelines

An alphabet soup of agencies and departments was mobilized to put the owner of Marlena’s Bistro behind bars

… close for indoor dining, citing an increase in COVID-19 cases. Hackney did not close her restaurant, and the state agriculture department revoked her license, citing a state food law. The state filed a complaint in the 55th District Court, which issued a temporary restraining order and a bench warrant for … more

University of Michigan Works To Conceal Records It Must Disclose Under Law

… to the public on state websites. For example, some of the documents released by U-M were duplicate copies of a 14-page report from the Michigan Licensing and Regulatory Affairs Department on child care operations. None of the documents provided any insight into what advice U-M officials were giving … more

Holland Restaurant Owner Arrested Over COVID Orders

Marlena’s Bistro and Pizzeria has operated at near capacity despite lockdown mandates

… Rural Development petitioned a court to enforce a shutdown order targeting her restaurant. The department had suspended Hackney's food establishment license in January, according to a press release put out today by the Attorney General’s office announcing the arrest. Hackney closed her business in March … more

Transparency Laws are Designed to Keep the Government Accountable. But do They?

Government has repeatedly resisted the openness requested by the people

… timely fashion highlight just how broken the government’s attitude is toward transparency. In the past few months, we have sued the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, both Michigan State University and the University of Michigan, the city of Warren, and the Michigan Department of Health … more

She Fled Communism For Freedom, Now Faces Jail For Not Closing Restaurant

Polish immigrant takes a stand

… has to pay the bills. The city is not giving me a break on my property taxes,” she said. Hackney said she regarded the authorities who revoked her license to serve food and sought court orders to shut her down as “unlawful.” “I run a constitutional business,” she said. Neither the governor nor public … more

State Agencies And Local Governments Get Creative Dodging Open Records Requests

‘Freedom Of Information' law? ... Make Sure You Bring A Lawyer And Checkbook

… days permitted. But many government agencies go much longer than the 15 days allowed when responding. For example, the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs acknowledged that on July 7 it received a $1,327 payment for documents requested in a FOIA. But the department did not produce … more

No Face Masks In Indoor Driving Range Stalls? Violation Exposed With Police Escort

'We’re going to get through this, and we’re going to get through it together'

The state of Michigan announced this week that 22 businesses were cited by its agencies for COVID-19 violations, with two seeing their liquor licenses suspended. One of the establishments cited was Birdies Indoor Golf & Bar in Oxford. At  5:45 p.m. Friday Jan. 29 a Michigan Liquor Control Commission investigator … more

A License To Go Out Of Business? Michigan Retailers May Need One

Stores must get a city permit to hold a ‘going out of business’ sale

… retail business has to get a license to hold a “going out of business … “going out of business sale” license has a termination date, a … merchandise not listed in the license application. The license is valid for 30 days and a … going-out-of-business-sale license must declare that the store … more

County Clears Restaurant On COVID Violation, State Nails It For Missing A Later FAQ

Owner enters administrative law zone, where judge and prosecutor work for the same boss

… document, a “duly authorized agent of the Commission,” Administrative Law Judge Michael J. St. John, an employee of the Department of Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, of which the commission is a part. When the current round of statewide lockdowns was ordered on Nov. 15, there was confusion … more

Michigan Government’s Coronavirus Agents Active Statewide - Except Detroit

State has publicized 112 COVID busts but just two were in Detroit

… owners of The Bitely Tavern found their liquor license suspended in January for violating the state’s … Liquor Control Commission suspended the liquor license of Minnie’s Rhythm Café in Detroit, after police … coronavirus rules, and Jimmy’s Roadhouse had its liquor license suspended for COVID-19 violations. The Michigan … more

Tavern Owner Chooses Civil Disobedience; Liquor License Suspended

… Liquor Control Commission has suspended Corky's Beal City Tavern's liquor license. Since September 2020, the MLCC has suspended liquor licenses of a total of 37 establishments throughout Michigan for violating state … more

There They Go Again? U-M Looks To Be Dodging Open Records Accountability

Hide the substantive discussions, bury requestors in chitchat and already-published material

… which were also heavily redacted. For example, the second tranche of documents included duplicate copies of a 14-page report from the Michigan Licensing and Regulatory Affairs Department on child care operations. Many other publicly available online documents from various state agencies were also … more

31 Bars And Restaurants Lose Liquor License For Epidemic Lockdown Offenses In 2020

In 2020, the state of Michigan suspended liquor licenses of a total of 31 establishments located throughout the state for violations of COVID-19 executive orders. more

Restaurant Owner Pushed To The Edge By Lockdowns

‘Every attempt we made at compliance was not enough’

… release stated. "The state has created a no-win situation for our U.P. businesses. Those who refuse to close just to survive are having their duly paid licenses revoked and property rights seized or destroyed by bureaucrats in Lansing. While the Legislature took action to provide businesses with relief in … more

Restaurant And Bar Tent Adds Three Walls Too Many For Health Department Officials

Costs the establishment its liquor licence

A Plymouth bar and restaurant had its liquor license revoked when local health department officials deemed the outdoor tent it had constructed violated state health department COVID-19 regulations. State orders mandate that outdoor tents for dining service that have a roof must have three sides of … more

Another Example Of State’s Aggressive COVID Enforcement

Restaurant skirting restrictions attracts inspectors

Another state business has had its liquor license suspended after the undercover state investigators who visited were first told that the business was only open for takeout orders. But the state investigators, who pretend to be legitimate customers, saw people with their food sitting and drinking at … more

Undercover State COVID Investigators Wouldn’t Take No For An Answer

State investigators persisted in trying to enter after informed restaurant only open for takeout

The state of Michigan has suspended the liquor license of a restaurant after the establishment initially told undercover state investigators it was open … restrictions. According to the state documents, two investigators from the Licensing and Regulatory Affairs agency received a complaint about Polsky’s Pub … more

Family Restaurant On Brink Fought The Lockdown Law

Now sanctioned by other laws, including suspended liquor license

… down. “They took my liquor license off the wall and put a big … door that said my liquor license had been suspended,” Cory … same day they took my liquor license, 10 minutes later a health … law judge for the liquor license,” Cory said. “I lost and I’m … suspension of his liquor license. Cory still has to face another … more

Family Says Clumsy COVID Orders, Isolation, Caused Dad’s Decline And Death

… home regulators and was told last week that Medilodge Milford will be cited for violating health care standards. A spokesman for the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs said the facility is under investigation but declined further comment. more

Another Michigan Restaurant’s Liquor License Suspended For COVID Noncompliance

… Liquor Control Commission has suspended the liquor license of another Michigan restaurant for violating COVID-19 … the state health department. The latest liquor license suspension occurred Dec. 2 and involves a Gaylord … State Police. The state has suspended the liquor licenses of seven restaurants/bars thus far for not following … more

State Pulls More Liquor Licenses, Encourages Individuals To Report COVID Violators

… Liquor Control Commission announced Wednesday it suspended the liquor licenses of three restaurants/bars for violating the state’s COVID-19 regulations. … Capitol Confidential reported the state had fined or suspended the liquor licenses of seven other businesses for COVID violations. more

Four Bars And Restaurants Fined And Three Others Have Liquor Licenses Suspended For COVID Violations

… $5,000 and the Michigan Liquor Control Commission suspended the liquor licenses for bars and restaurants on Wednesday alleging they were in violation of the public health order issued Nov. 15. The liquor licenses for three businesses in Newaygo, Fremont and Fenton were suspended. Four … more

Bipartisan Bills Ease Occupational Licensure Mandates For Veterans

Service members and vets licensed in other states could work in Michigan, too

… legislation to reduce state licensing mandates that impose barriers … laws governing occupational licenses in ways to benefit veterans … studies on occupational licensing in Michigan, added, "More … that require a professional license, many of which do not transfer … continue reforming and reducing licensing requirements across the b … more

Common Sense Licensing Reforms for Military Families a Good Start

Occupational licensing a needless barrier to jobs for too many

… require a state-mandated license, many of which do not transfer … Too few states recognize licenses earned in other states or … got her teaching degree and license in Pennsylvania before moving … is moved to recognizes her license from Pennsylvania. And it … teachers. States require licenses for nurses, doctors, lawyers, … more

Beer, Tattoo Art and Groceries: Is There Nothing the State Won’t Subsidize?

Governments do a lousy job at creating jobs through its handout programs

… beer consumption while another — the Michigan Liquor Control Commission — works to thwart it. The MLCC does so by enforcing a byzantine regime of licensing and permitting and rules, much of which serves to explicitly or implicitly keep the price of alcohol higher than it would otherwise be. Its “post … more

Civil Rights Commission Speaks Erroneously About Charter Schools

Yes, they must follow state and federal laws

… is a system that provides taxpayer money to charter schools without requiring them to follow state laws regarding special education, testing and licensing.” The Michigan Department of Education has refuted the claim. “Public School Academies must follow those state and federal laws,” said Martin Ackley, … more

Should A Past Crime Bar Someone From Becoming A Roofer?

Michigan gets poor grades on licensing laws that keep reformed criminals unemployed

… jobs to get an occupational license, which in returns meeting … title of an occupational licensing scorecard published by the … grade on how fairly its licensing laws treat applicants with … the scorecard, the state's licensing laws fail to give due process … that part of the scorecard. Licensing boards here also do not give … more

Salon Owner Reported For Facebook Post, Gets State Inspection

Small town entrepreneur learns value of keeping quiet

… tipping point came early this month when her recently reopened salon received an unexpected visit from an inspector with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs. The inspector was investigating rumors that she was flouting Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s pandemic-related executive orders. … more

Whitmer To Regulators: You Must Consider Shutting Down Businesses Violating My Orders

Business licenses also in jeopardy

… orders a priority. It also authorized the immediate closure and possible license suspension for businesses that do not follow them. The executive directive also … credible complaint about a business violating her orders must be referred to licensing authorities to be investigated. It also requires that state department … more

More Evidence License Mandates Protect Special Interests Over Consumers

Legislation would require the least-restrictive method necessary

… and rigorous occupational licensing requirements are holding … 40​, would require that new licensing standards be tailored in … Policy, said the occupational licensing scheme in Michigan is often … commercial pilot. Some state licenses are simply unnecessary, he … reviews. But he also said licensing requirements are sometimes … more

Lawmakers Consider Regular Review Of Burdensome Occupational License Mandates

Do they really protect public health and safety — or just restrict competition?

… review of state occupational licensing laws. These laws apply to … testimony on Senate Bill 40, a licensing reform bill introduced by … reviews of whether particular licensing mandates protect public health … legislators change or even repeal licensing laws that exceed the “least … Skorup said that Michigan’s licensing laws impose undue restrictions … more

Gov. Whitmer Repeals Rule She Says Helped Michigan Fight Coronavirus

Less strict medical scope-of-practice rules should remain

… decision to reinstitute medical licensing rules makes little sense, especially … practice beyond the limits of their licenses.” This is especially surprising, … made it easier for workers to skip licensing mandates, do work without the direct … and avoid other, largely needless, licensing hoops. Michigan’s rules for nurses … more

Retailers To Whitmer: We Aren't Your Face Mask Police

Governor imposes face mask mandate for customers at any business open to public

… acting in good faith could be subject to severe licensing sanctions based on the actions of non-compliant … the executive order could have their business license temporary suspended as well as their liquor license. “While retailers and retail employees appreciate … more

State Regulator Claims Alcohol Market Manipulation Makes Us Safer; Data Says Not

No difference in health and safety between heavy control states and those without it

… benefits. But the data does not support this claim — including data the state licensing agency offers in defense of its regulations. In a recent newspaper column, … statistically significant differences between the 18 control states and the 32 license states (and the District of Columbia) in rates of alcohol-related deaths, … more

Michigan’s No. 10 In State Excise Tax On Liquor Tax — With Other Taxes And Fees That Follow

State government is also the sole wholesaler here of hard liquor

… states levy bottle or case fees, depending on the size of the containers. Other measures include a wholesale tax rate, and distributor and retail license fees that are then converted into a per-gallon excise tax, according to the Tax Foundation. Certain states may impose different rates that vary depending … more

Why Can Funeral Directors Only Manage One Home Per County?

Bill seeks to keep rural undertakers from going under

… 696, which aims to ease an unusual licensing restriction that confronts rural … to make ends meet. By allowing one license to cover two establishments, the … direction. Rolling back occupational licensing laws for funeral homes benefits … Colorado, for example, requires no license for funeral home directors. A 2017 … more

Cop Or Barber? Clipping Hair In Michigan Requires Three Times More Training

594 hours versus 1,800 hours

To become a barber in the state of Michigan an individual must obtain a license that requires completing 1,800 hours of training at a licensed barber college. To become a police officer in Michigan, an individual must complete 594 hours of basic training curriculum at a police academy. more

It's A Crime In Michigan To Cut Hair Without A License Even For Free

… who is not an “immediate family” member without first obtaining a state license - even if the service is provided for free. That provision of state law … related by birth, marriage, or adoption. The penalties range from having a license suspended to fines of up to $10,000. Huff had cut hair on the grounds … more

Whitmer Admits Social Distancing Violation; Thousands Face $1,000 Fines

Democrats censured elected lockdown protestor for same offense in April, mayor said then Republican 'put residents at risk of death'

… Health and Human Services Director Robert Gordon said social distancing is “essential to saving lives.” Gordon added, “A civil penalty and potential licensing actions send a strong message to Michiganders that social distancing is essential to saving lives.” Whitmer acknowledged violating her own executive … more

How a Mid-Michigan Dam Failed

EGLE and Boyce Hydro actions appear to have compounded the May 2020 flood

… inadequate spillway capacity as key reasons for revoking Boyce Hydro’s license to operate the Edenville Dam hydroelectric project. Boyce Hydro lacked … compliance with federal regulations but failed. After the dam lost its federal license, jurisdiction shifted to the Michigan Department of Environment, Great … more

Salon Owner Charged With Working During Lockdown, Six Employees Unemployed

If they pull her license, she loses her business

… due to the fear she may lose the business if she did not. The state’s licensing agency was in Huff’s salon on Thursday. The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs asked for a police officer to be present during … more

Bill Would Permit Outside Bar And Restaurant 'Social Districts'

… to a press release. The outdoor areas would be deemed a "social district" and adjacent establishment could serve drinks there for an annual $300 licensing fee. House Bill 5781 was also introduced in the House of Representative do the same thing, sponsored by Rep. Michael Webber and a bipartisan group … more

Liquor to Go: An Idea Whose Time is Now

It seems much of the state’s liquor code and rules are written for a protected class

… licensees already possess an extra license to do that, so this liberalization … example, that has obtained a retail license to be a “specially designated merchant,” … “specially designated distributor” license that is strictly limited by a quota … on local population. Quotas for licenses to sell beer and wine for off premises … more

Some Desperate Barbers, Salons, Others Reopen Despite Lockdown

But beware the license bureau

… Michigan sheriffs have said they will not enforce lockdown orders, the state licensing bureau is offering no similar leniency. Karl Manke's barber's license has been suspended. more

Michigan AG Dana Nessel Says Rebel Barber 'Not A Hero,' 'Not A Patriot'

Says jail a 'last resort' but license suspended

… in its attempt to shut down Manke. And the county sheriff has refused to enforce the state’s executive orders. The state has suspended his barber license. “We are not looking to throw people in jail. That to me is a very, very last resort,” Nessel said in an interview with Sinclair Broadcast Group … more

Michigan Cannot Enforce Its Own Barbering Laws

Illegal barbers are everywhere, but the state targets just one for fines and potential jail time

… the state attorney general and had his state license suspended. The 77-year-old Manke said he tried … member of his or her immediate family without a license under this article.” The governor has not issued … headlines. This episode highlights the limitation of licensing laws. These state requirements do very little … more

Budgets in the Time of Coronavirus

State officials should consider bold spending cuts and other reforms

… higher amount of unrestricted general fund appropriations for the state licensing department. It has been corrected. The state of Michigan will soon grapple … Savings: $25,000. End the General Fund Subsidy to Michigan's Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs: The money this department receives is mostly from … more

License Restrictions Block Getting More Nurses Where Needed

States could help patients by honoring each others’ medical licenses

… come out of retirement, but licensing restrictions are an obstacle … revise their professional licensing rules to allow a concept known as universal license recognition. If Michigan did … how states treat driver’s licenses from other states, except … this case for occupational license,” Slivinski said. State Rep. … more

Lawn Mowing Double Jeopardy In Roseville? City’s Order Versus State’s

Residents of Macomb community face potential Catch-22 in getting grass cut

… commercial lawn services may not be willing to place their employees at risk of arrest for violating state work restrictions, or risk their business license. Roseville says it “will not be issuing violations for actions in compliance” of its order, but the Macomb County Sheriff and Michigan State Police … more

State of Michigan Bans Day Care Providers From Giving Young Children Timeouts

‘This is not about children; it’s about increasing government control’

… confused and angry.” The new regulation was enacted by the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs in December and implemented over the last few months. … environment, and therefore lead to extinction of the offending behavior,” the licensing agency stated in an email. “It is inappropriate to discipline children … more

Feds Permit Malaria Drugs For Coronavirus Patients, State Has Not Rescinded Threat Of Sanctions

FDA’s chief scientist: ‘Based on the totality of scientific evidence … may be effective’

… state of Michigan’s Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs threatened … has commented. Instead, the state licensing agency wrote an email on March 30 … director of the Bureau of Professional Licensing, that acknowledged the FDA ruling's … statement of the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs: “Prescribing … more

Never Mind Lockdown, Dentists Shut Down By Demand For Masks

If suppliers could raise prices surgical masks might not disappear so fast

… has been the commodity most associated with quickly emptying store shelves. Merchants have been threatened with fines, jail time and losing their license for using temporary price increases to prevent hoarding by consumers. more

Michigan Licensing Bureau Vs. Dr. Fauci On Off-Label Coronavirus Treatment

Fauci tells MDs, 'Yeah, of course' - prescribe it; state agency threatens their license if they do

… anti-viral medications. But Michigan’s Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs has warned physicians … communications manager for the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs was asked why LARA seemed … prescribers and dispensers: The Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs has received multiple … more