FINAL BILL REPORT

SHB 1055

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Brief Description: Requiring workers to have licenses, certificates, or permits in their possession when performing work in certain construction trades.

Background:

The Department of Labor and Industries administers and enforces state laws governing certain construction-related trades. These laws require persons who perform electrical, plumbing, or conveyance work to have appropriate certificates of competency or licenses. Persons who perform such work without appropriate certificates or licenses, as well as persons who employ them, are subject to civil penalties ranging from $250 to $500 for violations of the electrician certification requirement, $250 to $1,000 for violations of the plumber certification requirement, and $500 for violations of the elevator mechanic licensing requirement.

Summary:

The Legislature finds that dishonest contractors sometimes hire unlicensed and uncertified persons to perform electrical, plumbing, and conveyance work. This practice gives them an unfair competitive advantage. Requiring persons to have licenses, certificates, permits, and endorsements (licenses) and photo identification in their possession while performing this work will help address the problems of the underground economy in the construction industry.While performing electrical, plumbing, or conveyance work, persons must have licenses and photo identification in their possession. They must produce licenses and photo identification upon request of an authorized representative of the Department of Labor and Industries (Department). They may be required to wear and visibly display licenses pursuant to Department rules. Licenses may include photo identification.

Votes on Final Passage:

House	95	0
Senate	33	15