Rating: +1

Bill Summary:

House Bill 214 updates Section 54-1010 of Idaho Code to clarify and strengthen the supervision requirements for electrical contractors and apprentices while preempting local governments from adding more restrictive rules. Key provisions include:

• Defines “supervision” to mean that a licensed master, journeyman, or residential electrician must be available during working hours and is responsible for overseeing electrical installations.
• Maintains the requirement that all installations by a licensed contractor must be performed or supervised by a licensed electrician.
• Preserves the ability of an individual business owner to act as their own supervising journeyman or master electrician if qualified.
• Establishes specific supervision ratios:
  • 1:6 ratio for residential settings,
  • 1:2 ratio for non-residential job sites,
  • No ratio limit for apprentices with 6,000+ hours of experience and who are in or have completed an approved CTE program.
• Clarifies that limited electrical installer trainees must be registered but are not subject to supervision ratios.
• Preempts all local governments from enacting supervision or registration requirements that differ from state law, both prospectively and retroactively.

Reason for Rating:

HB 214 promotes workforce flexibility, regulatory consistency, and occupational freedom, all of which align with Idaho Republican Platform priorities. It prevents cities and counties from burdening contractors with inconsistent local rules and creates a level playing field for employers and apprentices. By protecting against overregulation and codifying clear supervision standards, the bill supports small businesses, technical career development, and efficient government oversight.