Augusta, Maine - With the 125th Legislature having adjourned, Commissioner Anne L. Head is highlighting actions taken by legislators, the Governor and the Department of Professional and Financial Regulation (DPFR) to reduce regulation, support businesses and assist Maine Veterans.
"The Department of Professional and Financial Regulation worked with lawmakers and the Governor during the 125th Legislature to reduce or eliminate several unnecessary regulations and to streamline programs," Commissioner Head commented. "Other law changes this session should encourage economic activity and assist Maine veterans."
Commissioner Head noted that Governor Paul LePage has made it a priority to help Maine's veterans--encouraging state agencies to provide assistance to those who served our State and nation in the military. The Commissioner pointed to a piece of legislation this session (LD 1850; Public Law, Chapter 603) intended to ensure that veterans are given full credit for relevant military training and experience when they apply for an occupational license from the Department's Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation, which issues licenses in dozens of professions. The Commissioner announced that steps have already been taken to make sure the expertise of Maine veterans is recognized and valued when they apply for a license. Additionally, the Department advocated for law changes during the 125th Legislature that will reduce the regulation of various occupations. Governor LePage and the Department worked with members of the Legislature, both Republicans and Democrats, to eliminate regulation in some cases and ease licensure requirements in other instances. These changes are expected to benefit licensees, the public and some Maine businesses.
-- Ended License Requirement for Electrical Companies: Maine law was changed to eliminate the requirement that electrical companies obtain a license. No compelling reasons could be identified for maintaining this requirement.
-- Exempted Simple Electrical Work: Another change exempts persons performing "incidental" electrical repairs in homes from licensing requirements. Incidental electrical work is defined as simple projects limited to light fixtures and switches that do not require electrical installation calculations. -- Created Limited Barbering License: The Department created a Limited Barbering License for individuals who wish to practice as a barber, but who don't want to offer certain chemical services. This should make it easier for people to enter the barbering profession, while still being well-trained and tested in the services they'll provide.
-- Simplified Licensure for Certain Veterinarians: This new law will enable veterinarians licensed in other states or Canada, who meet certain requirements, to more easily obtain a Maine license. It may help to expand veterinary care in underserved areas of the State. The Department also highlighted a new law intended to provide health insurance premium reductions for Maine's smallest businesses. The Legislature enacted a bill that's expected to offer health insurance premium relief to "micro-businesses" of less than five employees. Commissioner Head noted that the Department will continue to explore ways to reduce regulation, streamline programs and reduce costs--while also continuing to safeguard public health and safety. She encouraged anyone with ideas for additional improvements to licensing laws and procedures, or other issues handled by DPFR, to contact the Department by calling 207-624-8603 (TTY: 888-577-6690) or visiting www.maine.gov/pfr.
The Department of Professional and Financial Regulation (DPFR) encourages sound ethical business practices through oversight of insurers, financial institutions, creditors, investment providers, and numerous professions and occupations.
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