Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Consumer Protection & Business Committee |
HB 1967
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 licensing and background investigations for in-home service providers.
Sponsors: Representative Reeves.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 2/19/19
Staff: Serena Dolly (786-7150).
Background:
The Department of Licensing (DOL) licenses and regulates a number of businesses and professions. The DOL may investigate complaints or reports of unprofessional conduct, hold administrative hearings, and discipline licensees.
The Uniform Regulation of Business and Professions Act (URBPA) provides standardized disciplinary procedures for various businesses and professions regulated by the DOL. The URBPA governs the unlicensed practice of these professions, the issuance and denial of licenses, and the discipline of individuals who violate the Act.
Summary of Bill:
An "in-home service provider" is defined as any person hired or employed to enter another person's residence for the purposes of:
set up, installation, or repair of: a household appliance; furniture; heating, air-conditioning, ventilation, plumbing, or electrical systems; and cable, telephone, satellite, internet, or other telecommunications systems; or
renovating, remodeling, repairing, or rehabilitating a residence when occupied.
An in-home service provider must obtain a license from the Department of Licensing (DOL). Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements for a license:
be at least 18 years of age;
complete a background check;
satisfy the training requirements established by the DOL, which must include the topics of cultural competency and sexual harassment prevention and awareness; and
pay the required nonrefundable fee for each application.
In-home service providers are required to carry a license card, issued by the DOL, when providing in-home services. The DOL will issue a temporary card when an applicant completes the required training and submits a license application.
A complaint and investigation process is established within the DOL. An employer must notify the DOL if a licensed in-home service provider is terminated due to allegations of unprofessional conduct. In-home service providers are subject to the Uniform Regulation of Business and Professions Act and disciplinary action by the DOL.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Requested on February 7, 2019.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.