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House backs contractor-licensing reform to strengthen audits, financial reviews
Summary
The House passed House Bill 324 to overhaul contractor licensing oversight, requiring more frequent financial reviews and allowing targeted audits; supporters said it addresses backlog and enforcement gaps, while opponents urged further interim study.
The House approved House Bill 324, a package of contractor-licensing amendments intended to strengthen oversight of financial responsibility and enforcement by the Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL).
Sponsor Representative David Eurer said the bill is a "start" to fix a flawed licensing system, describing delays in licensing and the need for periodic audits: "Every contractor's financial condition will be reviewed every 2 years...This strengthens DOPL's ability to spot potential problems by allowing DOPL to perform random and specific audits." He said the bill preserves existing financial requirements while improving enforcement.
Floor debate included an amendment (No. 2) proposed by Representative Cohen to give DOPL explicit authority to enforce the existing one-apprentice-per-journeyman restriction for electricians and plumbers. Supporters argued enforcement is a public-safety measure; opponents warned about practical effects on service work and small contractors. The amendment passed after debate.
Representative Ray described practical problems with the current licensing process, including long waits for upgrades and costly audited financial statements; he urged passage to force administrative attention to problems that have left contractors waiting months for licensing changes.
The House recorded a final vote of 66 yes and 6 no; HB324 will be referred to the Senate for further action.
