SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6739

As of February 16, 2004

Title: An act relating to establishing commercial and domestic pump installer licenses.

Brief Description: Establishing commercial and domestic pump installer licenses.

Sponsors: Senators Honeyford and Hewitt.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Commerce & Trade: 2/19/04.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE & TRADE

Staff: John Dziedzic (786-7784)

Background: A person engaged in the business of working on pumps for potable water or waste water systems is subject to regulation under a number of statutes. The person must be:

      •    registered as a general contractor or the applicable specialty contractor(s) with the Department of Labor and Industries (L&I) under RCW 18.27;

      •    licensed as a journeyman or specialty plumber by L&I under RCW 18.106 to install, alter, repair, or renovate a water system (not including water softening or water treatment equipment) or liquid waste systems;

      •    licensed as a specialty, journeyman or master journeyman electrician (and possess an electrician administrator's certificate if not working alone) to install or maintain electrical wires and equipment; and

      •    licensed by the Department of Ecology (DOE) under RCW 18.104 if the work involves drilling or constructing new wells, or the alteration of an existing well.

DOE has additional responsibilities regarding the protection of groundwater from pollution. The Department of Health also regulates and certifies operators of water systems serving more than one residence under RCW 70.119 and RCW 70.119A.

Summary of Bill: A new licensing system within L&I is established for persons engaged in the business of installing domestic or commercial pumps. No other license or fee may be required of a pump installer. Pump installers must meet certain qualifications, and comply with current national electrical code and uniform plumbing code. L&I may adopt rules, including a competency examination, in consultation with an advisory board, which is established. Continuing education requirements, infractions, disciplinary and appeal processes are created.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.