Bill > A1457

This bill, known as the "General Contractor Licensing and General Contractor Business Registration Act," establishes a regulatory framework for general contractors and their businesses in New Jersey. It creates the New Jersey State Board of General Contractors within the Division of Consumer Affairs to set licensing standards, review applicants, issue and renew licenses, and enforce disciplinary actions. To be licensed, individuals must be at least 18 years old, complete an accredited construction or project management degree with specific coursework and field experience, or complete an approved apprenticeship program with significant field experience, and pass both the Certified Professional Constructor examination and a supplemental board-developed exam covering state construction codes. The bill also mandates that general contractor businesses register annually with the Division of Consumer Affairs and employ at least one licensed general contractor, with penalties for violations. Existing general contractors with substantial experience may be exempt under certain conditions, and licenses will be valid for three years.