(AP) - Nevada Assemblyman Richard Carillo says the state's poor economic conditions have spurred an increase in unlicensed contractors.
He is sponsoring AB203, which would fine contractors for working beyond the scope of their licenses or for working without a license.
Carillo told the Assembly Commerce and Labor Committee on Wednesday that current regulations don't discourage such illegal practices, but provisions in AB203 have financial teeth that are necessary to protect Nevadans from unscrupulous contractors
He says the issue isn't about licensed contractors losing out to unlicensed ones. Carillo says the goal of the bill is to protect homeowners who knowingly or unknowingly employ individuals who lack the expertise or don't have the insurance coverage for construction, electrical and plumbing projects.