Connecticut proposal to eliminate licensing and renewal fees
Connecticut governor's Ned proposed budget calls for eliminating fees for obtaining and renewing occupational licenses for certain professions, aiming to encourage jobseekers to enter in-demand fields. The proposal would benefit nearly 180,000 workers, including nurses, dental hygienists, mental health professionals, occupational therapists, paramedics, physical therapists, physician assistants, electricians, HVAC workers, plumbers, sheet metal workers, and teachers. License fees for these occupations currently range from $50 to $375 per year, depending on the license. If enacted, the plan is projected to save workers approximately $18.8 million in fiscal year 2026 and $25 million in fiscal year 2027. The article does not indicate how this proposal would affect the operating budgets of the licensing boards for these professions.