By Associated Press - Wednesday, April 26, 2017

TALLHASSEE, Fla. (AP) - The Florida House hopes to create more jobs by passing legislation that would deregulate 20 professions that include barbers, boxing timekeepers and architects.

Republican Rep. Halsey Beshears, who is sponsoring the bill (HB 7047), said Wednesday that lowering training and licensing requirement for certain occupations would spark a small business boon. The 86-30 vote in favor of the measure came after two lawmakers said inadequate training would endanger the health of Floridians.

The measure would reduce the state’s role in regulating businesses, which opponents argue could open workers in these industries to lawsuits.

A Senate companion has moved past two committee stops, and includes repealing criminal background checks for talent agents.

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