Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that establishes state-issued licenses for pool contractors in Oklahoma.

Highlights:

• Prohibits a person from building or installing a swimming pool without a swimming pool contractor license once licensing regulations are adopted (Sec. 1-3). 

• Requires the Construction Industries Board to administer and enforce this Act, including setting minimum qualifications, license categories, fines and penalties, and disciplinary proceedings (Sec. 2).

• Requires the Construction Industries Board to adopt regulations by November 1, 2027 establishing the experience, training, continuing education, liability insurance, workers’ compensation, and examination requirements for a license (Sec. 3). 

• Authorizes a person to be licensed without examination if, by November 1, 2027, they demonstrate experience and training equivalent to the examination qualifications, pay the required fees, and meet the other requirements (Sec. 3). 

• Establishes license fees equal to those for plumbing, electrical, and mechanical contractors, and makes licenses valid for one year and non-transferable (Sec. 3). 

• Requires a licensed contractor to use a written contract when engaging in swimming pool contractor work with a property owner, lessee, or property manager (Sec. 3). 

• Prohibits an unlicensed swimming pool contractor from bringing or maintaining a lawsuit related to their business as a swimming pool contractor (Sec. 3). 

• Specifies that an advance payment or deposit of more than $10,000 for future pool supplies, materials, or work, is presumed to be intentionally deceptive unless the contractor provides verifiable documentation supporting the costs (Sec. 3). 

• Specifies that this Act takes effect November 1, 2026 (Sec. 4).

Full Bill Text