S.B. 2937 Summary

• Exempts employees of Hawaii-licensed electrical contractors from electrical licensing requirements when performing high voltage (600+ volts) electrical work, provided the employee is deemed qualified through an apprenticeship program.

• Defines "qualified to perform high voltage electrical work" as certification through an apprenticeship program authorized by the U.S. Department of Labor's Employment and Training Administration or Hawaii's Department of Labor and Industrial Relations.

• Amends Hawaii Revised Statutes Chapter 448E to add a new exemption section and modifies Section 444-9.5 to explicitly permit unlicensed employees of electrical contractors to perform high voltage work under these conditions.

• Addresses the shortage of qualified high voltage electricians, splicers, and linemen in Hawaii needed for utility maintenance and renewable energy projects connecting to the power grid.

• Takes effect upon approval.