Sen. Jansens bill to help Michigan electricians find work approved

Thursday, June 04, 2009

LANSING — Legislation designed to help Michigan-licensed electricians work in other states was approved Thursday by the Michigan Senate, said sponsor Sen. Mark C. Jansen, R-Gaines Township.

“I sponsored this bill after being approached by a business in my district that wants to keep Michigan electricians working and supporting their families,” Jansen said. “This is about jobs plain and simple. We need to keep our skilled workers and job providers in Michigan.”

Senate Bill 142 would establish a more efficient mechanism for reciprocity with other states for the licensure of electricians. Reciprocity would allow Michigan electricians to work in other states with their Michigan license.

Current law operates on a case-by-case basis. Establishing reciprocity agreements with other states would make the system more efficient and timely.

Jansen’s measure is modeled after similar laws affecting plumbers and other occupations. The proposed law would require electricians to have a license in good standing from their home state that meets or exceeds Michigan’s criteria.

“I hope my colleagues in the House will pass this bill, which will allow our Michigan businesses and workers to compete and expand,” Jansen said. “My measure will help keep our families and job providers in Michigan while allowing electricians to use their skills in other states.”