SB389 Summary

• Extends liability protection to owners, architects, engineers, construction managers, and awarding authorities when a subcontractor's current license number is submitted with a bid, matching existing protections for general contractors.

• Eliminates the exception that previously allowed subcontractors to avoid licensing requirements at the time a project is bid; subcontractors must now be licensed prior to beginning work on projects exceeding $50,000.

• Requires general contractors to verify that subcontractors are licensed before entering into construction contracts with them, with violations constituting a Class B misdemeanor.

• Maintains reduced licensing fees for subcontractors (one-half of general contractor fees) and exempts subcontractors from examination requirements.

• Becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and approval by the Governor.