Spring is here, and the labor market is facing unique challenges. Job openings are still near all-time highs as companies struggle to fill open positions. At the same time, many workers have given up looking for work entirely.

Finding skilled workers is particularly challenging for many businesses. Unnecessary red tape, such as occupational licensing laws, bears much of the blame for keeping individuals from finding work. Occupational licensing requires individuals to attain minimum levels of education and training and apply to a licensing board before they are allowed to practice. The application process requires both time and money, making it more difficult to enter a profession. Today, about 20% of workers are required to obtain a license before they can legally work.