SB 5802-S - DIGEST

(SUBSTITUTED FOR - SEE 2ND SUB)

     Provides that all installations of wires and equipment defined as telecommunications systems are subject to the requirements of this act.  Installations shall be in conformity with approved methods of construction for safety to life and property.  The national electrical code approved standards of the telecommunications industries association, the electronic industries association, the American national standards institute, and other safety standards approved by the department shall be evidence of approved methods of installation.

     Does not limit the authority or power of any city or town to enact and enforce under authority given by law in RCW 19.28.360, any ordinance, or rule requiring an equal, higher, or better standard of construction and an equal, higher, or better standard of materials, devices, appliances, and equipment than that required by this chapter.

     Declares that it is unlawful for any person, firm, partnership, corporation, or other entity to advertise, offer to do work, submit a bid, engage in, conduct, or carry on the business of installing or maintaining telecommunications systems without having a telecommunications contractor registration.  Telecommunications contractors registered under this act are not required to be registered under chapter 18.27 RCW or licensed under chapter 19.28 RCW.

     Creates a telecommunications board and declares it is the purpose and function of the board to advise the director on all matters pertaining to the enforcement of this act including, but not limited to, standards of installation, minimum inspection procedures, and the adoption of rules pertaining to this act.

     Provides that all sums received from registrations, permit fees, or other sources, shall be paid to the state treasurer and placed in a special fund designated as the telecommunications fund.  The director or the director's designee, upon approval by the board, shall issue vouchers for sums necessary to accomplish the intent of this act to be paid regularly by the state treasurer.