Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB395

Introduced
3/20/25  

Caption

Providing for plumber and plumbing contractors licensure; establishing the State Board of Plumbing Contractors and providing for its powers and duties; conferring powers and imposing duties on the Department of State; establishing fees, fines and civil penalties; establishing the Plumbing Contractors Licensure Account; and making an appropriation.

Impact

SB395 is expected to have a significant impact on state laws governing the plumbing industry. It will formalize the licensing of plumbing professionals, which previously may have lacked stringent regulatory oversight. The bill includes provisions for civil and criminal penalties for violations, thus enabling better enforcement of plumbing standards. This change could enhance public safety and ensure that plumbing services adhere to established codes and practices throughout the state, benefiting consumers and businesses alike.

Summary

Senate Bill 395 aims to establish a comprehensive licensing framework for plumbers and plumbing contractors in Pennsylvania. This legislation proposes the creation of a State Board of Plumbing Contractors that would oversee the licensing process, set standards for qualifications, and enforce regulations concerning the plumbing sector. The bill outlines the requirements for individuals seeking licensure, including proof of experience, adherence to continuing education protocols, and compliance with state safety codes. Furthermore, it establishes clear provisions for the duration of licenses, as well as rules regarding the enforcement of plumbing practices.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB395 is generally positive among proponents who assert that a regulatory framework will improve the quality of plumbing services in Pennsylvania. Advocates for the bill believe it will help professionals in the plumbing field maintain high standards of practice and continuously improve their skills through mandated continuing education. However, concerns may arise around the potential bureaucratic burdens that licensing imposes on smaller operators and the challenge of regulating a broad range of plumbing services uniformly.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the potential for the board's regulations to interfere with local licensing practices and how the bill may affect the ease of entry into the profession for new plumbers or state reciprocity for those licensed in other states. The balance between regulating for public safety and maintaining access for skilled workers is likely to be a key issue during discussions around this bill's implementation.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB390

Providing for plumber and plumbing contractors licensure; establishing the State Board of Plumbing Contractors and providing for its powers and duties; conferring powers and imposing duties on the Department of State; establishing fees, fines and civil penalties; establishing the Plumbing Contractors Licensure Account; and making an appropriation.

PA SB1326

Providing for licensure of electrical contractors, electricians and apprentice electricians; establishing the State Board of Electrical Licensure; providing for powers and duties of the board; establishing fees, fines and penalties; and making an appropriation.

PA HB519

Providing for licensure of electrical contractors, electricians and apprentice electricians; establishing the State Board of Electrical Licensure; providing for powers and duties of the board; establishing fees, fines and penalties; and making an appropriation.

PA HB1241

Providing for the licensure of bodywork facilities; imposing powers and duties on the Department of State; and prescribing penalties.

PA HB2360

Providing for verification of construction contractors and for procedures for verification; establishing the Construction Contractor Verification Account; imposing penalties; and making an appropriation.

PA HB1183

Providing for verification of construction contractors and for procedures for verification; establishing the Construction Contractor Verification Account; imposing penalties; and making an appropriation.

PA HB589

Establishing the Landslide Insurance Program; establishing and providing for the powers and duties of the Landslide Insurance Board; providing for duties of the Auditor General; imposing a penalty; and making appropriations and transfers.

PA SB785

Establishing the Animal Welfare Board; and providing for its powers and duties.

PA HB832

Establishing the Pollinator Task Force and providing for its powers and duties; and imposing duties on the Department of Agriculture.

PA HB1224

Providing for criteria for independent contractors in the traveling sales industry and for the powers and duties of the Department of Labor and Industry; and imposing penalties.

Similar Bills

PA HB390

Providing for plumber and plumbing contractors licensure; establishing the State Board of Plumbing Contractors and providing for its powers and duties; conferring powers and imposing duties on the Department of State; establishing fees, fines and civil penalties; establishing the Plumbing Contractors Licensure Account; and making an appropriation.

UT HB0442

Construction Trades Licensing Amendments

UT SB0043

Occupational and Professional Licensing Modifications

UT SB0044

Professional Licensure Amendments

UT SB0036

Professional Licensing Amendments

CT SB00611

An Act Establishing A Maximum Charge For Certain Occupational Licenses, Certifications, Permits And Registrations.

OK SB317

Electrical License Act; adding definition of student electrical intern. Effective date.

MI SB0072

Occupations: electricians; ratio of electrician apprentices to journey or master licensees on a jobsite; modify, and require joint responsibility for supervision between electrical contractors and master electricians. Amends secs. 701, 711, 715 & 717 of 2016 PA 407 (MCL 339.5701 et seq.).