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Bill

HB 1681

Allowing HVAC/refrigeration electricians to perform certain electrical work on ductless mini-split HVAC systems.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by April Connors and 7 co-sponsors

HB 1681 permits HVAC/refrigeration electricians to perform designated electrical work on ductless mini-split systems, bypassing full electrical licensing requirements.

By resolution, reintroduced and retained in present status.
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Bill Summary · HB 1681

Legislative bill overview

HB 1681 expands the scope of work that HVAC/refrigeration electricians can perform by allowing them to conduct certain electrical work on ductless mini-split HVAC systems without requiring a full electrical license. Currently, most electrical work falls under strict licensing requirements. This bill carves out a specific exemption for this category of technicians on these particular systems.

Why is this important

Ductless mini-split systems are increasingly popular for heating and cooling in Washington homes and businesses due to their efficiency. By allowing HVAC specialists to handle related electrical work, the bill could reduce installation costs, speed up deployment, and address potential workforce shortages in the HVAC trade. However, it also involves balancing consumer safety protections against regulatory barriers to skilled trades.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope ambiguity: The bill's phrase "certain electrical work" lacks precise definition, which could lead to disputes about what tasks fall within or outside the exemption and create enforcement challenges.
  • Safety oversight: Electrical work traditionally requires licensing to ensure proper training and code compliance; critics may argue this exemption bypasses important safety standards, while proponents counter that mini-split systems have different risk profiles.
  • Competitive impact: Licensed electricians may oppose the measure as unfair competition that undercuts their business, while HVAC contractors support it as necessary modernization for their industry.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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