New businesses would have an easier time getting licenses and completing other paperwork under a bill proposed by Sen. Chap Petersen, D-Fairfax, and passed by the General Assembly.

On unanimous votes, Senate Bill 1226 received final approval last week by the House and Senate. If Gov. Bob McDonnell signs the bill into law, it will take effect July 1.

The measure authorizes local governments to establish “one-stop” licensing programs. That means start-ups could go to one location in a city or county to register for a small-business license and fill out state and local tax forms.

“This system saves time for business owners by consolidating governmental paperwork in one place,” Petersen stated in a press release. “For example, as a small business, you can renew your car’s registration, obtain a business license and register for sales tax at one time.”

A related measure, House Bill 2183, introduced by Delegate Ben Cline, R-Amherst, also has cleared the House and Senate unanimously. It would allow businesses to register for sales tax purposes with their local commissioner of revenue rather than with the state tax commissioner.

The state tax commissioner would establish guidelines for local officials to follow.

To track Senate Bill 1226, visit http://www.richmondsunlight.com/bill/2011/sb122 To tr.ack House Bill 2183, visit http://www.richmondsunlight.com/bill/2011/hb2183.