Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB1260

Introduced
4/1/26  

Caption

Providing for licensure of electrical contractors, electricians, residential electricians, apprentice electricians and probationary 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.

Impact

The introduction of SB1260 is expected to significantly impact state laws concerning occupational licensing. It mandates that electricians meet specified qualifications, such as completing an apprenticeship or equivalent experience, and that they undergo continuing education to maintain their licenses. The act also outlines provisions for criminal background checks, ensuring that individuals with relevant convictions cannot easily evade regulation. This legislative framework is intended to provide a clearer pathway to licensure while improving public confidence in electrical services.

Summary

SB1260, also known as the Electrical Services Licensure Act, establishes a comprehensive framework for the licensure of electricians, including licensed electrical contractors, residential electricians, apprentice electricians, and probationary electricians. The bill aims to enhance public safety and ensure that practitioners in the electricity sector meet specific qualifications and standards before they are allowed to operate. It establishes a State Board of Electrical Licensure, which will oversee the licensing process, enforcement, and compliance with regulations and standards.

Contention

Some points of contention regarding SB1260 revolve around the potential burden on new and existing electricians due to the newfound licensure requirements. Opponents argue that this could create barriers to entry for individuals seeking to work in the field, particularly those from low-income backgrounds who may not afford the associated costs of licensure and continuing education. Additionally, there are concerns regarding how this legislation will integrate with existing local regulations, as the act seeks to preempt local ordinances related to the licensing of electrical work. These aspects are under scrutiny by various stakeholders, including trade associations and apprentices in the electrical field.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB98

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 SB165

Licensure of Electricians

PA 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.).

PA HB1208

Revise licensure provisions for electricians.

PA S290

Relative to the apprentice ratio for licensed electricians

PA HB2869

electricians; certification

PA LD509

An Act to Allow a Journeyman Electrician to Supervise 3 Helper Electricians

PA AB1707

Electricians: certification application, examination, and renewal.

PA SB1303

electricians; registration; requirements

PA H429

Regarding requirements for continuing education for electricians

Similar Bills

DE SB102

An Act To Amend Title 24 Of The Delaware Code Relating To The Board Of Electrical Examiners.

AZ SB1303

electricians; registration; requirements

ME LD509

An Act to Allow a Journeyman Electrician to Supervise 3 Helper Electricians

KS HB2588

Providing for statewide electrician licensing by the board of technical professions.

CA AB1707

Electricians: certification application, examination, and renewal.

TX HB1874

Relating to the scope of work a master electrician is authorized to perform.

NE LB725

Change provisions of the State Electrical Act

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.).