AUGUSTA – The Maine House of Representatives voted Monday to advance legislation sponsored by Rep. Tiffany Roberts, D-South Berwick, that would protect Maine consumers by establishing a licensing requirement for general contractors.
“After four decades of studies and advocacy, it's time to finally put Mainers first and establish licensing standards that Maine families deserve and that responsible contractors support,” said Roberts. “I am proud that the House took the important step to advance this thoughtful legislation that was carefully crafted with stakeholders and industry professionals to protect Mainers.”
LD 1226 would require residential contractors engaged in projects over $15,000 to be licensed. The license would include certain education requirements that many contractors already satisfy. Additionally, the bill would provide the Attorney General’s Office with enforcement tools, such as license suspension and penalties for contractors who violate license requirements.
Currently, Maine is one of just six states that doesn’t require general home contractors to be licensed, despite having licensing requirements for professions like electricians, plumbers and barbers. Over the past five years, the Maine Attorney General’s Office says it has received more than 3,200 complaints related to contractor issues, totaling hundreds of thousands of dollars in alleged losses.
The bill faces further votes in the House and Senate.
Roberts is serving her fourth term representing House District 149, which includes portions of North and South Berwick. She serves as House chair of the Inland Fisheries and Wildlife Committee and is a member of the Housing and Economic Development Committee.
Contact:
Brian Lee (Roberts) | 305-965-2744