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EmpowerMS report outlines how...

EmpowerMS report outlines how occupational regulations limit job opportunities in Mississippi

By: Frank Corder - January 12, 2022

Russ Latino joins Y’all Politics to discuss the findings. Watch the interview.

Empower Mississippi released a report today that examines the burden created by Mississippi’s occupational regulations, how they impact entrepreneurs, consumers, and the larger economy, and potential reforms that could reduce the burden.

The report was authored Dr. Ed Timmons, a professor of economics and Director of the Knee Center for the Study of Occupational Regulation at the John Chambers School of Business and Economics at West Virginia University, Conor Norris, a research analyst for the Knee Center and Empower Fellow, and Empower President Russ Latino.

Latino joined Y’all Politics for a discussion on the report’s findings. He says there are 102 professions with less than a college degree that requires a license. Mississippi requires licenses for 66 of those. This ranks Mississippi as the 15th most widely licensed state. At the same time, Mississippi has the second lowest workforce participation rate in the country. It is estimated that the licensing has reduced the number of jobs in Mississippi by almost 13,000. This has translated to an economic loss of $37 million for the state.

In the interview, Latino also offered his thoughts on the income tax elimination and teacher pay raise proposals currently being considering by the Legislature.

You can read the report here and watch the interview with Latino below.

About the Author(s)
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Frank Corder

Frank Corder is a native of Pascagoula. For nearly two decades, he has reported and offered analysis on government, public policy, business and matters of faith. Frank’s interviews, articles, and columns have been shared throughout Mississippi as well as in national publications. He is a frequent guest on radio and television, providing insight and commentary on the inner workings of the Magnolia State. Frank has served his community in both elected and appointed public office, hosted his own local radio and television programs, and managed private businesses all while being an engaged husband and father. Email Frank: frank@magnoliatribune.com