We’re not
shy about pointing out studies that show that Maryland’s fiscal situation or
business climate compare unfavorably with its neighbors, such as Virginia,
Delaware, or West Virginia. We surely don’t do so out of any sense of glee, but
rather in the hope that highlighting such information will help spur Maryland’s
citizens – and its policymakers – to embrace budgetary, tax, and regulatory reforms
that will improve the welfare of the state for all.
While we’re
not shy about suggesting ongoing reforms for moving Maryland ahead, we also are
pleased when we can take note of good news. Some of that comes in the form of a
new
study from George Mason University’s Mercatus
Center which shows that Maryland has less regulatory “red tape” than its
neighboring states. Make no mistake, even though a cursory review of Maryland’s
existing regulatory landscape indicates that there is more work to be done, it
is nevertheless gratifying to take note of Maryland’s favorable position
relative to its neighbors.
Over
the last two years we have praised Governor Larry Hogan’s regulatory reform
efforts, even as we have offered ideas for further reforms. Governor Hogan’s
focus on regulatory reform, and the results so far, have a direct impact on
Maryland’s fiscal and business climate. Here is the way the Mercatus’ James
Broughel and Nick Zaiac put it in a December 15 Baltimore
Sun essay:
One reason for Maryland’s
competitive footing with its neighbors may be Gov. Larry Hogan and Lt. Gov.
Boyd Rutherford’s prioritization of regulatory reform. Mr. Hogan convened a
regulatory reform commission soon after taking office, which Mr. Rutherford
helps lead.
The commission has
documented dozens of problematic regulations that the governor’s administration
has modified or repealed. These include rollbacks of certain rules from the
Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation — the state’s third biggest
regulator, based on restriction count.
Occupational licensing
regulations, which require people in certain professions like cosmetology and
landscaping to get state approval before they can work, are often crafted with
the best of intentions. But they also limit upward mobility by creating
barriers for people looking to find well-paying jobs or start small businesses
to support their families.
So,
it’s only right and proper to welcome and acknowledge the positive results
attributable, at least in part, to the Hogan administration’s Regulatory Reform
Commission and other efforts. And it’s only right and proper to urge that the
focus on efforts to eliminate or at least modify costly, burdensome regulations
that are no longer necessary – if ever they were – continue apace.
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