Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Labor & Workforce Development Committee

HB 2323

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.

Background:

The Department of Labor and Industries (Department) administers and enforces state laws governing electrical work. Individuals performing electrical work must have a journey level or the appropriate specialty certificate of competency and individuals learning the electrical trade must have a training certificate.

In 2009, the Legislature required individuals who perform electrical work to have photo identification in their possession while working. The Legislature also gave the Department authority to adopt a rule requiring electricians to wear and visibly display their certificates. Similar provisions were enacted for the plumbing and conveyance trade. In 2013, the Department adopted a rule requiring electricians and trainees to wear and visibly display their certificates. The rule specifies situations when the certificate may be worn inside the outer layer of clothing, including when the person is working in a crawl space or wearing welding gear.

Individuals who violate the electrical laws and rules, including the identification and certificate display requirements, are subject to civil penalty.

Summary of Bill:

The authority of the Department to establish a rule requiring an electrician to wear and visibly display his or certificate is eliminated. The Department may require that the individual produce proof of proper licensing and identification upon request, but may not require an individual to wear or visibly display their license or personal identification on their clothing or as part of their uniform.