SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6212

As of January 23, 2002

Title:  An act relating to exempting heating, air conditioning, water heater, and household appliance installation and service from electrical licensing laws

Brief Description:  Exempting heating, air conditioning, water heater, and household appliance installation and service from electrical licensing laws.

Sponsors:  Senators Honeyford and Deccio.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Labor, Commerce & Financial Institutions:  1/24/02.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON LABOR, COMMERCE & FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS

Staff:  Elizabeth Mitchell (786‑7430)

Background:  Certified electricians are currently required for work on low-voltage HVAC or refrigeration equipment, and for the replacement of household appliances involving electrical hookups.  This requirement can be waived if a homeowner performs work on his or her own home, or has a non-electrician friend or relative perform this work.

Summary of Bill:  A certified electrician is not required for work on low-voltage conductors for HVAC or refrigeration equipment if conductors only connect to HVAC or refrigeration equipment.

A certified electrician is not required for replacing household appliances if the replacement appliance has no greater electrical supply requirements than the appliance being replaced, or if the replacement components are "like in kind" with the existing components.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Requested on January 17, 2002.

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