SB1286 - Regulatory Sunrise Review Act

• Establishes a mandatory review process requiring cost-benefit analysis before the General Assembly can act on legislation to license and regulate any previously unregulated profession or occupation.

• Applicants proposing new professional licensure must submit a petition and $1,000 non-refundable fee within 30 days of introducing legislation; the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation must complete an independent report within 12 months.

• Reports must be authored by qualified labor market economists or cost-benefit analysis experts and must analyze social/economic costs and benefits, labor market impacts, alternatives to licensure, and provide specific recommendations.

• Sets rigorous criteria for regulation, requiring clear demonstration that unregulated practice harms public health/safety/welfare, that the public would benefit from licensure, and that less restrictive alternatives are inadequate.

• Mandates that if regulation is approved, the General Assembly must impose the least restrictive form necessary, prioritizing stronger civil remedies and criminal sanctions or registration systems before licensure.