OH SB238

Establishes a "residential-only certification" issued by the Ohio construction industry licensing board for contractors in heating, ventilation, air conditioning, refrigeration, electrical, plumbing, and hydronics trades working on residential projects.

Requires applicants to complete an application, maintain contractor's liability insurance of at least $250,000 for complete operations coverage, and pay a $100 certification fee (reduced proportionally if certificate expires in less than five years, minimum $20).

Certificates expire every five years and require renewal within 90 days before expiration with proof of continued insurance and completion of 20 hours of board-approved continuing education per five-year period.

Prohibits any person from claiming to be a certified residential-only contractor without holding a valid certificate; violations result in a minor misdemeanor on first offense and fourth-degree misdemeanor on subsequent violations.

Makes certification optional and does not require direct labor subcontractors or other persons to obtain certification to work on residential construction projects in Ohio.