HARRISBURG, PA — Secretary of the Commonwealth Al Schmidt recently announced significant advancements in the processing times for professional and occupational licenses in Pennsylvania, reflecting the Shapiro Administration’s dedication to removing obstacles for qualified workers and businesses. This marks a pivotal step in facilitating faster business operations and employment opportunities across the state.
The improvements come in response to Governor Shapiro’s directive to the Department of State to enhance the licensing process within the Commonwealth. “Last year, Governor Shapiro directed the Department of State to improve the professional licensing process in the Commonwealth,” Schmidt stated. “I’m happy to report that we’ve cut average processing times for many types of licenses from several weeks to just a few days.”
Noteworthy examples of this progress include the processing times for cosmetology salons and barbershops. Previously, initial applications for these businesses took an average of 15 and 12 days respectively in January 2023. Now, complete applications can be processed as swiftly as the same day, a development Schmidt emphasized as vital for small business operations. “Faster license processing times mean these new businesses can open and their employees can get to work sooner,” he added.
Other professions have also seen remarkable reductions in processing times. Vehicle dealership and salesperson applications, once taking up to 12 days, are now completed within a day. Similarly, real estate salespersons and pharmacists can expect their applications to be processed in just one day, down from 13 and 26 days respectively. Medical doctors educated in the U.S. and physical therapists, who previously faced waits of up to 43 and 31 days, now see their applications processed in two days.
These enhancements are part of a broader initiative launched by Governor Shapiro through an executive order on January 31, 2023, mandating a thorough 90-day review of the processing times for licenses, permits, and certifications by state agencies. Following this review, specific deadlines were established to ensure timely processing, with the promise of refunding application fees if deadlines are not met.
The reduction in processing times carries significant implications for Pennsylvania’s economic growth and business landscape. By streamlining licensing processes, the state is not only supporting the rapid establishment and expansion of small businesses but also fostering an environment conducive to job creation. This is particularly pertinent for sectors such as cosmetology, automotive sales, and real estate, where timely licensing can directly impact the ability to commence business operations and employ staff.
The Shapiro Administration’s focus on efficiency and responsiveness is likely to position Pennsylvania as an attractive destination for entrepreneurs and skilled professionals seeking a supportive regulatory environment. This move could lead to increased business investments and a more dynamic economic ecosystem.
As the state continues to prioritize the removal of bureaucratic hurdles, the positive effects on Pennsylvania’s business development and employment rates are anticipated to be substantial, thereby strengthening its economic resilience and future prosperity.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN.