Nothing Is Perfect

I realize there is/will be a lot of negativity should licensing float to the surface. No question, we’re all anti intrusion of the government in our lives. But I will say a license does not benefit the horseshoer. It’s most beneficial to the horse. As stated previously, a license separates the qualified horseshoer from the “nail drivers.”

I’m positive the feedback you’d get from people who were licensed in Illinois would be anything but negative.

The Illinois license was made law in 1915 by American Express, according to an old timer I once knew. They would let out contracts to owners of blacksmith shops for their shoeing needs. Some of these shop owners would hire anybody who could wrap their hand around a hammer handle.

The Illinois law was put in effect by the legislature. Administered by the Department of Registration and Education, and actually administered by a board of horseshoers. You darn sure had to prove your ability when tested by the examiners.

A horseshoeing license no more guarantees a next-to-perfect job than a driver’s license guarantees everyone on the road will drive in a safe, sound manner. Nothing is perfect.

This is just my opinion. Take it for whatever it is worth.

— Bill Miller, Rochester, Wash.

Licensing Will Hamper Goals

I am writing in response to the ongoing debate over licensing or regulation. My father qualified under…