Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB540

Introduced
4/4/25  

Caption

Further providing for procedures for registration as a contractor.

Impact

The proposed changes within SB540 are likely to have a considerable impact on state laws governing home improvement contracts. By mandating proof of workers' compensation coverage, the bill aims to safeguard workers within this industry. It is expected to enhance accountability among contractors and provide better protection for consumers who hire these services. The amendment could also streamline the registration process, aiming for more efficiency and clarity in compliance among contractors.

Summary

Senate Bill 540 is an act proposed in Pennsylvania aimed at amending the Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act. Introduced on April 4, 2025, by Senators Tartaglione and others, the bill seeks to enhance the procedures for the registration of contractors involved in home improvement projects. A significant addition is the requirement for contractors to provide proof of workers' compensation coverage as part of their registration process. This amendment aims to ensure that contractors operating in the home improvement sector are compliant with state laws concerning workers' rights and protections.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB540 appears to be cautiously optimistic, particularly among labor rights advocates and consumer protection groups. Supporters of the bill argue that the proposed measures will help protect workers and ensure that only qualified contractors can operate legally. However, there might be pushback from contractors who feel that additional requirements could complicate their registration process and possibly lead to increased costs. Overall, the discourse seems to reflect a balance between worker protection and the operational viability for contractors.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB540 could revolve around the implications of increased regulatory oversight on contractors. Some stakeholders may argue that the added requirement for workers' compensation proof could be seen as an overly burdensome regulation, potentially leading to fewer small businesses being able to compete. Others may counter that the primary focus should be on the safety and rights of workers in the industry, suggesting that the measure is a necessary step towards accountability and protection of consumer interests.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB171

Further providing for procedures for registration as a contractor.

PA HB757

Further providing for independent contractors.

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 HB2263

Providing for persons ineligible to work for registered contractors.

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 HB993

Further providing for definitions and for the offense of home improvement fraud.

PA HB692

Further providing for definitions and for home improvement fraud.

PA HB413

Further providing for independent contractors.

PA HB906

In liability and compensation, providing for registration of status as independent contractor.

PA HB1141

In preliminary provisions, further providing for short title, for declaration of intent and for definitions; in wages and hours, further providing for minimum wages, for piece rates, for employment of minors, for discrimination on account of sex prohibited, for records required and notice to workers, for wage payment and for hours of labor and providing for minimum guaranteed period of employment; in regulations and inspections, further providing for rules and regulations, for inspections and entry, for permit to operate a seasonal farm labor camp, for enforcement orders, for civil remedies and for drinking water and toilet facilities and providing for food service and cooking facilities, for cooperative agreements with Federal and State agencies, for medical services and for posting of information concerning housing; in access and entry, further providing for tenancy rights, for interference prohibited and for privileged persons and providing for privacy rights of tenants; in registration of farm labor contractors, further providing for annual registration required, for qualifications of registrants, for agents exempt from registration and employment agencies, for farm labor contractors and agents and prohibited activities and for Secretary of Labor and Industry and powers and duties; in construction, repeals, penalties and effective date, further providing for criminal penalties and providing for retaliation prohibited, for private right of action and for civil penalties and enforcement orders; and making an editorial change.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.