SB 279 - This act requires those who setup or install manufactured homes to be licensed. Any person desiring to obtain a setup contractor license must submit a written application. The applicant must be at least 18 years of age, pass an examination, provide proof of workers' compensation insurance, carry general liability insurance in amount determined by the Public Service Commission, and complete a minimum 8-hour training course. A direct agent of a licensed contractor is not required to be licensed. The Commission may waive certain requirements if the applicant is licensed in another jurisdiction. In certain circumstances, the Commission may issue a limited permit. Any person engaged in the business of manufactured home setup or installation on August 28, 2003, shall be exempt until December 31, 2004, from complying with the training and examination requirements of the act.

A setup contractor license shall be renewed annually. The Commission may grant inactive status to a licensee. A licensee is required to notify the commission if the licensee cancels it liability coverage or workers' compensation coverage. The Commission may refuse to renew, suspend or revoke a license if the licensee is guilty of unprofessional conduct.

Persons who falsely hold themselves out as licensed contractors, use a suspended or revoked license, or otherwise engage as a setup contractor without a license are guilty of a misdemeanor.

Political subdivisions of this state shall not require an additional license to engage in the setup or the installation of manufactured homes.

Setup contractors are required to purchase setup decals from the commission and must affix the decals to the manufactured home upon setup.
STEPHEN WITTE