Occupational Power, State Capacities, and the Diffusion of Licensing in the American States: 1890 to 1950

Abstract

I examine the contributions of occupational power, state capacities, and diffusion processes to the variation among states in licensing occupations. Analysis of 30 occupations between 1890 and 1950 shows that occupational power promotes licensing legislation, but state governments also play a significant role. The state 's role differs by type of occupation. Licensing legislation diffuses across states for specific occupations. These findings raise questions for perspectives that treat licensing as undifferentiated and see the state as a captive of industry and occupational groups.