Maine considers regulation of home contractors
The Maine House of Representatives recently passed a bill aimed at establishing licensing requirements for residential contractors, following numerous reports of homeowners paying substantial sums for substandard or incomplete work. The legislation, introduced by Rep. Tiffany Roberts (D-South Berwick), mandates that general contractors undertaking residential projects exceeding a certain amount obtain a state license. The bill also proposes penalties for non-compliance and seeks to create a Residential Construction Board to oversee licensing and enforcement. Proponents argue that the measure would protect consumers and enhance accountability within the construction industry. However, opponents express concerns about potential impacts on small contractors and the broader housing market, suggesting that the licensing requirements could create barriers to entry and exacerbate existing housing shortages. The bill now awaits further consideration in the Maine Senate.