CONCORD — Gov. Chris Sununu’s deregulation initiative got another shot in the arm Wednesday as the House voted to set up a 10-member commission to review the existing system of occupational licensing in the state.

Proponents of the bill, HB 1685, argued that the existing system of boards and commissions to license everything from nail salons to massage is overly restrictive, especially when it comes to people who move here with occupational licenses from other states.

Opponents said New Hampshire has a well-established and well-designed structure of occupational regulation dating back decades that is strongly supported by the regulated professions and occupations.

The Committee on Executive Departments had voted 9-8 against the bill, but that recommendation was overturned by the full House, which passed the bill, 177-148. *| More at Union Leader.com

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