Neilson introduces legislation to mandate statewide licensing of electricians

Rep. Ed Neilson February 18, 2025 | 12:44 PM

Today, state Rep. Ed Neilson introduced legislation (H.B. 98) that would require statewide licensing for all electrical workers to protect both electricians and the consumers they serve.

Nelson is a lifelong member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 98. He said the bill number is a nod to his commitment to promoting safety and setting standards in a highly skilled and dangerous trade.

“Pennsylvania electricians deserve uniform guidelines that foster safe workplace practices and consumers deserve reliable service from well-trained electricians. The dangerous nature of electrical work is amplified in Pennsylvania by the lack of statewide licensing requirements to work in this highly skilled trade,” Neilson said.

Neilson added that Pennsylvania is just one of a handful of states that doesn’t require statewide licensing to work as an electrician, leaving them without opportunity to work in reciprocity with other states.

“We must ensure that our electricians have guidelines that not only set industry standards for quality electrical work but will keep safety a top priority for all.” Neilson said.

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