I'm Pete du Pont with the National Center for Policy Analysis. We normally think of the regulatory burden as something imposed by Washington. But a new study by the Reason Public Policy Foundation, the NCPA and others shows big cities are perfectly capable of putting up regulatory barriers – and hurting the people who need help most: Minorities, new immigrants and single parents.
Take even business-friendly Dallas, for example.
Dallas places strict licensing requirements on African-American style hair braiding, often requiring costly formal training in unrelated areas.
Dallas regulations prevent home-based business from selling products on the premises, and advertising either on or off the premises via a sign, display or telephone directory ad.
Dallas's regulation of taxicabs makes it nearly impossible for an entrepreneur to start service.
A new cab company must have a minimum of 25 taxicabs, adding $6,000 in licensing fees. So much for entering the market with one car, or on a part-time basis.
With regulators like this, who needs Washington?
Those are my ideas, and at the NCPA we know ideas can change the world. I'm Pete du Pont. Next time the law of unintended consequences.