This bill aims to enhance the enforcement of the "Landscape Irrigation Contractor Certification Act of 1991" by allowing local enforcing agencies to take action against violations of the act. Previously, enforcement was solely the responsibility of the Department of Community Affairs, which has faced staffing shortages that hinder effective oversight. The bill empowers local agencies to conduct inspections, impose fines, and shut down work sites if contractors are found to be in violation of the law, including the requirement for contractors to be licensed for irrigation work.

Additionally, the bill increases the penalties for violations, setting fines at up to $5,000 for the first offense, $10,000 for the second, and $15,000 for subsequent offenses. It also stipulates that 30% of the revenue from these civil penalties will go to the State General Fund, while 70% will be retained by the municipality or pilot county where the violation occurred. The amendments include changes to the definitions of relevant terms and the roles of local enforcing agencies, as well as updates to the procedures for issuing and enforcing penalties.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 45:5AA-2, 45:5AA-6, 45:5AA-9, 45:5AA-10