HB1711 was reviewed by Sen Kenney's ED&A committee and was approved to move forward 5-0. Full senate vote is on Thursday April 20. While there is broad support, there is also some discussion about amendments which could derail the bill. Supporters are trying to keep the bill focused.
Addressing prior post, a piece of paper vs years of hands on experience. Often some will say they have the experience and then they get in over their heads, or just don't know the add'l safety precautions. We can always press for references, trying to determine experience, but in many cases, there are subcontractors brought onto the site when you're not around.. in all cases, that piece of paper, the license and the required training and tests provides a known standard of proven skills...not a subjective... "I can do it/done it before" statement.
Also, about Sears dropping off the appliance...usually the drop-off team includes the installer... I would think Sears would use only licensed installers...they do in MA. And, while many in the Senate and House are not happy about it, the bill does provide an exclusion for the homeowner...to do his own gas work in his primary (single family detached) residence; any work must conform to plumbing/fire codes. Some are worried that most people resell homes within 5 years...others could buy problems... I think it's certain the law will go for voting with the homeowner exclusion in it.
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