SB 105, An Act Eliminating Various Occupational And Professional License, Permit, Certification And Registration Fees

TESTIMONY OF THE CONNECTICUT HOSPITAL ASSOCIATION
SUBMITTED TO THE GENERAL LAW COMMITTEE

Monday, February 23, 2026

The Connecticut Hospital Association (CHA) appreciates this opportunity to submit testimony concerning SB 105, An Act Eliminating Various Occupational And Professional License, Permit, Certification And Registration Fees.  CHA supports the bill.

Connecticut hospitals make our state stronger by delivering nationally recognized, world-class care, supporting jobs and economic growth, and serving communities across Connecticut.  Every day, hospitals improve access, affordability, and health equity — providing care to all patients regardless of ability to pay.  At the same time, hospitals invest in their workforce and local communities, even as they navigate significant financial and federal challenges.

SB 105 specifically eliminates (1) occupational license fees for speech and language pathologists, (2) license, permit, certification, and registration fees for occupations and professions regulated by the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection (DCP) (which would include all pharmacy-related staff roles), and (3) certification fees for teaching certificates.

SB 105 recognizes the critical importance of investing in the state’s workforce through the elimination of these application and renewal fees, which can help to ensure that Connecticut is a destination where essential professionals want to live and work. 

As workforce shortage projections continue to mount for the healthcare industry, CHA respectfully requests that the committee consider adding to the bill the elimination of occupational and professional license, permit, certification, and registration fees for all healthcare-related occupations and professions regulated by the Department of Public Health (DPH).

Thank you for your consideration of our position.  For additional information, contact CHA Government Relations at (203) 294-7301.