The bill amends RCW 18.106.270 to update the penalties associated with infractions committed by plumbing contractors. It establishes a minimum monetary penalty of $100 for individuals and $500 for contractors for their first infraction under RCW 18.106.020. The maximum penalty for a second or subsequent infraction is set at $5,000. Additionally, the bill changes the threshold for suspension of a contractor's certificate, license, endorsement, or registration from three infractions within a thirty-six month period to five or more infractions within a five-year period. The suspension can last up to two years and must be based on a final order from the department, which will also provide regular updates on enforcement actions to the advisory board of plumbers.

The bill also specifies that the administrative law judge cannot waive, reduce, or suspend the monetary penalties imposed for infractions, although the director may waive or reduce collection for good cause. Furthermore, it clarifies that multiple infractions from a single inspection or audit will be counted as one infraction. The monetary penalties collected will be deposited into the plumbing certificate fund. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2027.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 18.106.270
Substitute bill: 18.106.270
Engrossed substitute: 18.106.270
Bill as passed Legislature: 18.106.270