SB 5713-S.E - DIGEST

(DIGEST AS ENACTED)

Revises provisions relating to electrical work.

VETO MESSAGE ON SB 5713-S

May 20, 2003

To the Honorable President and Members,

The Senate of the State of Washington

Ladies and Gentlemen:

I am returning herewith, without my approval as to section 501, Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill No. 5713 entitled:

"AN ACT Relating to electrical work;"

This bill modifies the state electrical and plumbing statutes in a number of significant ways, including reducing the level of government regulation currently borne by both businesses and workers.

Section 501 would have exempted the repair, maintenance, and replacement of electrical appliances in residential settings from electrical licensing and certification requirements.

Licensing and certification are the only means the state has to ensure that well-trained and qualified individuals perform electrical work. Exempting these requirements, coupled with the exemption from inspection and permitting provided in other sections of this bill, would remove all regulatory oversight of electrical appliance replacement and repair work. This poses serious public policy concerns and could expose workers, homeowners, and the general public to hazards related to faulty electrical installations or repair.

Notwithstanding these concerns, I also want to ensure that the current level of regulation is not an unnecessary burden on the electrical appliance industry. Accordingly, after the first year of administering this act, I am directing the Department of Labor and Industries, to evaluate its impact and report its findings to me by December 31, 2004.

For these reasons, I have vetoed section 501 of Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill No. 5713.

With the exception of section 501, Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill No. 5713 is approved.

Respectfully submitted,

Gary Locke

Governor