SB171 Summary

• Restructures the Alabama Board of Electrical Contractors with nine members appointed by the Governor (one from each congressional district plus two at-large members) serving staggered three-year terms, subject to the Alabama Sunset Law with automatic termination on October 1, 2012, and every four years thereafter unless reestablished.

• Increases board member compensation to up to $300 per day (maximum 15 days per year) plus per diem and mileage; authorizes the board to employ an executive director, investigators, and other administrative staff while prohibiting employment of statewide electrical inspectors.

• Requires electrical contractor applicants to pass nationally standardized examinations and mandates 14 hours of continuing education every two years; allows restoration of expired licenses within five years upon payment of a restoration fee and satisfaction of continuing education requirements.

• Establishes grounds for license suspension, revocation, or denial including fraud, false statements, criminal conviction related to electrical work, and unlicensed practice; authorizes the board to impose civil penalties up to $5,000 and allows the board to investigate both licensed and unlicensed contractors.

• Permits appeals of adverse board actions to circuit court and creates a dedicated fund for the board with any surplus funds exceeding $100,000 transferred to the State General Fund annually.