The Legislature finds that many businesses and occupations in the state have a pronounced physical and economic impact on the health, safety, and welfare of the citizens of the state. The Legislature further finds that while the overall impact is generally beneficial to the public, the potential for harm and injury frequently warrants intervention by state government.

     The Legislature declares that it is appropriate and necessary for state government to protect its citizens from harmful and injurious acts by persons offering or providing essential or necessary goods and services to the general public. The Legislature further declares that business regulation should not be unfairly discriminatory. However, the general public interest shall be recognized and regarded as the primary purpose of all regulation by state government.