SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6631

As of February 1, 2002

Title:  An act relating to electrical licensing certification.

Brief Description:  Modifying electrical licensing provisions.

Sponsors:  Senators Rasmussen, Honeyford, Prentice and Sheahan.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Labor, Commerce & Financial Institutions:  2/4/02.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON LABOR, COMMERCE & FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS

Staff:  Elizabeth Mitchell (786‑7430)

Background:  Certified electricians are required for repairs and replacement of household appliances and electrical fixtures.  This requirement is waived if a homeowner performs these repairs himself or herself, or allows a neighbor or friend to perform them.  Some people believe that certified electricians should not be required to perform this work.

Summary of Bill:  Certified electricians are not required for "like in kind" replacement or repair of household water heaters and other common household appliances, or for "like in kind" replacement of existing circuit breakers, light switches, baseboard heating elements, and lighting fixtures.  These provisions only apply to appliances and circuits of up to 240 volts/60 amperes, and to line supply whips up to six feet in length when there are no modifications to the branch circuit.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not requested.

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