Gov. Wes Moore’s announcement on Jan. 10 outlining recommendations to modernize Maryland’s occupational permitting and licensing processes, is a monumental step toward creating equitable opportunities for the state’s workforce. His reforms aim to eliminate bureaucratic inefficiencies, foster collaboration across agencies and reduce barriers to employment — especially for individuals with prior convictions.

Dr. Sreedhar Potarazu’s case exemplifies the challenges these reforms seek to address. A physician and entrepreneur, Dr. Potarazu applied to reinstate his medical license in December 2023. Despite the clear language of Maryland’s Section 1-209 of Maryland’s Criminal Procedure code, which requires licensing boards to consider evidence of rehabilitation rather than imposing blanket denials based on past convictions, the Maryland Board of Physicians chose another avenue. Instead, the board continues to rely on outdated practices, prioritizing Dr. Potarazu’s criminal history over his qualifications, rehabilitation and potential contributions to the community.

This lack of adherence to existing legislation highlights the inefficiencies within Maryland’s licensing system. The failure to implement reforms like Section 1-209 not only hinders people who have acted in accordance with state law and paid their debts to society from reentering the workforce but also drains taxpayer dollars. Prolonged licensing delays and unnecessary legal battles place a financial strain on the state, contributing to the deficit and reducing the resources available for other critical initiatives. Dr. Potarazu’s experience underscores the urgency of Gov. Moore’s proposed changes, which aim to improve efficiency, accountability and fairness in government operations.

The governor’s initiatives, spearheaded by the Government Efficiency Commission, include creating a Maryland Coordinated Permitting Review Council, launching a unified permitting portal and reassessing the role of criminal history in licensing decisions. These reforms are a much-needed response to systemic inefficiencies that disproportionately impact individuals with prior convictions and impede economic growth.

Moore’s vision is rooted in the belief that a fair system benefits everyone. Maryland’s workforce thrives when all residents have an opportunity to contribute, unimpeded by unnecessary bureaucratic barriers. Yet Dr. Potarazu’s case reveals a gap between legislation and execution, illustrating how governmental inefficiency undermines this vision.

A unified permitting portal, as proposed in the governor’s plan, could eliminate redundant processes and ensure that all licensing boards comply with the law. Furthermore, revisiting the eligibility requirements for licensing can prevent boards from unjustly penalizing applicants based on past convictions, fostering a more inclusive and equitable system.

Beyond fairness, these reforms have financial implications. Streamlining licensing processes would reduce delays, eliminate redundant administrative costs and ensure that taxpayer dollars are used more effectively. Maryland cannot afford to allow inefficiency to persist, particularly when it hinders people like Dr. Potarazu from contributing to the economy.

By prioritizing high-impact credentials and addressing systemic inefficiencies, the state can create a more dynamic workforce while reducing unnecessary expenditures. Moore’s leadership is a step in the right direction, but as Dr. Potarazu’s case demonstrates, these reforms must be implemented swiftly and decisively to ensure that the promise of fairness and efficiency becomes a reality.

We applaud Gov. Moore’s commitment to addressing these issues. His reforms are more than administrative updates — they represent a fundamental shift in Maryland’s values. By prioritizing redemption, equity and opportunity, Maryland is paving the way for a brighter and more inclusive future.

The case of Dr. Potarazu is a reminder of what is at stake. Maryland must seize this moment to build a system that works for all its residents — one that values efficiency, fairness and the transformative power of second chances.

Sen. Charles Sydnor represents Maryland’s 44th legislative district in Baltimore County.