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H 4058

An Act relative to HVAC safety accountability and public transparency

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Manny Cruz

Bill H 4058 boosts HVAC safety in Massachusetts by enforcing accountability, enhancing transparency, and reducing carbon monoxide risks through stricter regulations and public oversight.

Accompanied a study order, see H4733
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Bill Summary · H 4058

Summary of Bill H 4058: An Act Relative to HVAC Safety Accountability and Public Transparency

Bill Information:
- Bill Number: H 4058
- Title: An Act relative to HVAC safety accountability and public transparency
- Status: Accompanied a study order, see H4733
- Introduced: May 01, 2025
- Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill H 4058 aims to enhance accountability and transparency in the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) industry in Massachusetts. The legislation seeks to address safety concerns related to carbon monoxide poisoning and other hazards associated with HVAC systems by establishing stricter regulations for HVAC companies and technicians.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes several significant changes to the existing laws governing HVAC practices:

  1. Accountability for Negligence:

    • HVAC companies and technicians will be held accountable for negligence or errors that lead to bodily harm or death due to carbon monoxide poisoning or related safety hazards.
  2. Authority of the Board:

    • The Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters will have the authority to impose penalties, including:
      • Financial penalties
      • Suspension or revocation of licenses for HVAC companies and individual technicians found negligent.
  3. Mandatory Licensure Reviews:

    • The Board will conduct mandatory reviews of licenses for technicians or companies involved in serious safety incidents related to carbon monoxide. This includes:
      • Formal investigations and hearings prior to any license suspension or revocation.
      • A clear process for revoking licenses of those guilty of gross negligence.
  4. Public Transparency:

    • The Division of Professional Licensure will create and maintain a publicly accessible online database. This database will include:
      • A list of HVAC companies and technicians whose licenses have been suspended or revoked.
      • Details of the violations or incidents leading to these actions to ensure public awareness and accountability.
  5. Restrictions on Licensing:

    • Technicians and companies found guilty of gross negligence will be prohibited from obtaining new licenses under different company names or transferring to other companies without disclosing past revocations.

Impact

The bill is expected to significantly impact the HVAC industry by:
- Increasing safety standards and accountability for HVAC professionals.
- Enhancing consumer protection by providing transparency regarding the licensing status and history of HVAC companies and technicians.
- Potentially reducing incidents of carbon monoxide poisoning and related hazards through stricter oversight and enforcement.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Actions:
    • The bill was referred to the committee on Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure on May 01, 2025.
    • A hearing is scheduled for June 23, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM in room A-1.
    • On May 05, 2025, the Senate concurred with the bill.
    • As of November 17, 2025, the bill has been accompanied by a study order (see H4733).

This legislation represents a proactive approach to ensuring the safety and accountability of HVAC services in Massachusetts, aiming to protect consumers and enhance public health.

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

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