Senate Bill No. 1465 proposes to amend existing regulations regarding hiring ratios for certain skilled trades, specifically in the electrical, plumbing, heating, piping and cooling, sprinkler fitter, and sheet metal work sectors. The bill allows the Commissioner of Consumer Protection to establish new hiring ratios for apprentices, journeymen, and contractors, with specific ratios outlined in the bill. Notably, the bill introduces a provision that permits licensed contractors to hire additional apprentices beyond the established hiring ratios, provided they submit an application demonstrating good cause for the request. The application process requires the contractor to disclose relevant information and receive a determination from the commissioner within ten business days, after which the application is deemed approved if no response is given.

The bill also includes provisions for the commissioner to amend regulations to implement these changes effectively. The existing hiring ratios are repealed and replaced with a new structure that allows for more flexibility in hiring apprentices, which could potentially lead to a revenue gain for the state as more occupational licenses may be applied for. The effective date for these changes is set for July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 20-332b
GL Joint Favorable: 20-332b
File No. 582: 20-332b