(a) It is the policy of the State of Vermont that regulation be imposed upon a profession or occupation solely for the purpose of protecting the public. The General Assembly believes that all individuals should be permitted to enter into a profession or occupation unless there is a demonstrated need for the State to protect the interests of the public by restricting entry into the profession or occupation.

(b) If such a need is identified, the form of regulation adopted by the State shall be the least restrictive form of regulation necessary to protect the public interest. If regulation is imposed, the profession or occupation may be subject to review by the Office of Professional Regulation and the General Assembly to ensure the continuing need for and appropriateness of such regulation. (Added 1977, No. 183 (Adj. Sess.), § 1; amended 1985, No. 96, § 1; 1985, No. 255 (Adj. Sess.), § 1; 2015, No. 156 (Adj. Sess.), § 1.)