The state of Louisiana has a "Horticulture Commission," the purpose of which is "to license and/or permit, and regulate persons engaged in horticultural businesses.
The law authorizes the commission to govern the qualifications and practices of persons engaged in these professions and occupations, to prevent fraudulent practices, to encourage participation in continuing education and to ensure that only high quality products and services are provided to the public by green industry professionals."
The law states that "no person shall receive fees, advertise, or solicit business in a regulated profession or occupation unless he/she holds the appropriate license or permit, or has a regular employee who holds the appropriate license or permit, or is employed by a person who holds the appropriate license or permit."
Recently, there was an attempt to get rid of retail florist licensing, but it was rejected "in a 6-1 vote on Tuesday after hearing objections from florists who said they agree with tighter regulations on their industry. 'Having a license is not a barrier,' said Annie Taylor, a licensed florist in Scott. 'To say you are a licensed florist sets you apart in the industry.'"
Ms. Taylor and her licensed colleagues would likely argue that being "set apart" in the industry protects flower-buying consumers; given the information presented this week, aside from ensuring high quality products, why else might florists find it in their interest to protect the licensing system? The total fee to become a licensed retail florist is $214 and passage of a written exam; what side effects might this fee and exam introduce into the floral market?