CSHB 325(L&C) Summary

• Removes "investigation fees" from occupational licensing fees that the department may collect, eliminating the ability to charge separate investigation fees for licensed occupations.

• Adds a new definition of "regulatory costs" that excludes costs attributable to disciplinary investigations and actions involving unlicensed practice, and legal/actual costs associated with complaints, hearings, mediation, and settlement.

• Changes references to "investigation" fees to "evaluation" fees in multiple occupational licensing statutes (pilots, pharmacists, and other professions).

• Increases annual business license fees from $50 to $50 per year (maintains current rate), keeps reduced fee at $25 for sole proprietors age 65+ or disabled veterans, and establishes $0 fee for sole proprietors receiving public assistance.

• Takes effect July 1, 2024.