Americans are worried about jobs, yet the government makes it harder to work. More than 1100 professions are licensed by at least one state.
In addition to lawyers and doctors are locksmiths, interior decorators, funeral attendants, librarians, hair stylists, food caterers, florists, barbers, and music therapists. As well as operators of conveyor belts and sellers of frozen desserts.
In 1950 just five percent of Americans needed official permission to work. Today nearly a quarter require some form of government approval.
Licensing is an extraordinary scam. The Wall Street Journal noted Texas’ requirement that “shampoo specialists” in hair salons take 150 hours of classes, including on the “theory and practice” of shampooing. There’s also a practical exam—which tests applying conditioner.