Governor signs HVAC bill

TRENTON — Assemblyman Parker Space’s legislation bringing more highly skilled workers into the heating and air conditioning trade was signed today by Gov. Phil Murphy.
Space’s measure clarifies that tradesmen who complete apprenticeship programs run by sheet metal workers, steamfitters and pipefitters are qualified to test for a master heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration contractor’s license.
The training has been included in apprentice programs for years, however, regulations have prohibited graduates from other apprentice programs from sitting for the test.
“There are many skilled and trained tradesmen who are ready, willing and able to do the work, but they have been unable to prove their qualifications on the test,” said Space (R-Sussex). “The new law opens the market for more licensed contractors, filling the void for qualified workers and making project costs more competitive.”
Assemblyman Hal Wirths joins as a co-sponsor of the bill.