CT HB05586

Waives initial occupational licensing fees effective July 1, 2018 for low-income individuals, military family members, and young workers (ages 18-24) in the following professions: barber ($100 fee), hairdresser/cosmetician ($100 fee), interior designer ($190 fee), and pharmacy technician.

Defines eligible fee-waiver recipients as: individuals enrolled in state/public assistance programs or with household income below 130% of federal poverty guidelines; veterans, active-duty military members, military spouses, and surviving spouses of deceased military members; and individuals age 18-24.

Requires applicants claiming fee waivers to provide documentation or information as deemed necessary by the Department of Public Health or relevant state agencies.

Mandates the Commissioner of Economic and Community Development conduct a comprehensive study comparing occupational licensing fees in Connecticut to surrounding states and submit findings and recommendations to relevant legislative committees by January 1, 2019.