MS HB945

Prohibits counties and municipalities from requiring contractors holding a valid State Board of Contractors certificate of responsibility, or licensed residential builders/remodelers, to pass any additional local tests or examinations, and bars local governments from imposing additional licensure requirements or discriminating based on nonresidency.

Adds new licensing prerequisites for residential builders and remodelers, including submission of a state tax identification number, and requires the same for contractors seeking reciprocity across municipalities and counties.

Grants the State Board of Contractors authority to adopt rules requiring public disclosure of license numbers, contact information, and insurance information of licensees.

Reduces the appeal period for persons aggrieved by board disciplinary decisions to 15 days from the date of adjournment, and adds a requirement that both the accused and complaining parties be notified of their right to be present at hearings in person or by counsel.

Extends the repealer (sunset date) on the residential builders and remodelers licensing law from its existing expiration to July 1, 2012, with an effective date of July 1, 2010.