SD11 - Backflow Prevention Device Workers


Executive Summary:
During the 1996 Session, the General Assembly passed Senate Bill 412 and House Bill 1019 (Appendix A and B) which were signed by Governor Allen establishing a state certification program for backflow prevention device workers [Chapter 934 and Chapter 1006]. The program, effective July 1, 1998, is to be administered by the Board for contractors at the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR). In addition, the legislation requested the Board for Professional Occupational Regulation to conduct a study to determine the appropriate level of regulation of backflow prevention device workers. The General Assembly also asked that the Board determine the approximate costs to individual regulants, affected businesses, and consumers of the various forms of regulation.

The Board of Professional and Occupational Regulation studied the practice of this occupation, and whether state regulation is necessary to protect the public health, safety and welfare. The Board conducted a public hearing to gather information, received and reviewed numerous written comments, and surveyed localities and other states regarding the necessary level of regulation.