Speaker Jon Burns and Lt. Governor Burt Jones Announce Joint Committee Investigating Professional Licensing Issues

ATLANTA - Today, Speaker of the House Jon Burns (R-Newington) and Lt. Governor Burt Jones announced a joint Blue-Ribbon Committee to investigate licensing issues within the Secretary of State's Professional Licensing Boards Division.

"Small businesses and the communities they serve are the lifeblood of our state's economy," said Speaker of the House Jon Burns. "We have received numerous complaints from businesses across Georgia regarding substantial inefficiencies in renewing and obtaining the licenses and certifications necessary for their operation. In response, we have appointed a joint committee to identify opportunities for improvement-and subsequently determine a path forward for resolving this critical issue. We look forward to working alongside our friends in the Senate to provide much-needed clarity and accountability surrounding the problems within the Professional Licensing Boards Division."

"One of the most important duties of the Office of the Secretary of State is to ensure licenses and certifications are obtainable in a timely and efficient manner," said Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones. "It has become increasingly clear that the Secretary of State is incapable of handling such duties. The Blue-Ribbon Committee will examine ways in which we can improve our licensing processes. We must ensure that the government is not impeding Georgians from starting or expanding their businesses."

*Editor's note: a letter with additional information is attached.

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