Howard County - Speed Monitoring Systems - Expansion of Authorization Ho. Co. 9-26
Summary
HB1170 amends Maryland’s Home Improvement law to expressly include the installation of residential solar power system equipment used to generate electricity for use on the property as a “home improvement.” By doing so, the bill brings residential solar installation work within the scope of the Maryland Home Improvement Commission’s contractor licensing requirements.
The bill states that a person must have a contractor license when acting as a contractor in the State, and this measure clarifies that this requirement applies to residential solar power system installation. The act is set to take effect October 1, 2025. In practical terms, the bill would regulate solar installers working on residential properties under the existing home improvement framework, including licensing oversight and related consumer protections.
Impact
HB1170 would amend the Business Regulation Article, specifically the Maryland Home Improvement Commission provisions in Title 8, by expanding the statutory definition of “home improvement” to include residential solar power system equipment installation. This would subject residential solar installers to the contractor licensing rules already applicable to home improvement work, potentially affecting installers, homeowners, and the Commission’s enforcement and licensing processes.
Sentiment
No committee transcript or vote record was provided, so there is no direct evidence of debate, support, or opposition in the available materials. Based on the bill text alone, the measure appears technical and regulatory in nature, aimed at clarifying licensing coverage rather than changing substantive solar policy.
Contention
The main point of potential contention is whether residential solar installation should be treated as ordinary home improvement work requiring a contractor license, which could impose additional compliance obligations on solar businesses and installers. Supporters would likely view the bill as a consumer-protection and licensing-clarity measure, while opponents might argue it adds regulatory burden or could affect the residential solar market. No specific objections or sponsors’ arguments are included in the provided record.
State management: purchasing; awarding contracts to entities that donate or contribute to certain political candidates or committees; prohibit. Amends 1984 PA 431 (MCL 18.1101 - 18.1594) by adding sec. 264b.