Oklahoma State Senate
Communications Division
State Capitol
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105

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For Immediate Release: February 10, 2009


Senator Debbe Leftwich

Senate Committee Clears Measure Requiring Liability Insurance for Contractors

The Senate General Government Committee on Tuesday approved legislation that would require contractors to have general liability and workers’ compensation insurance before they can be issued residential building permits.

The Oklahoma City Democrat said the measure would provide protection for homeowners.

“A home is likely the most significant investment most families will ever make and it’s important that adequate protections be in place,” said Leftwich, D-Oklahoma City. “This will provide homeowners with protection in the event of a problem. It’s an important step toward ensuring legitimacy.”

Mike Means, Executive Vice President of the Oklahoma Home Builders Association, said the bill is an important step toward providing homeowners with adequate protection.

“This is a good bill that provides an important safeguard for Oklahoma homeowners,” Means said. “If something goes wrong, the contractors insurance will take care of it, not the homeowner’s. That’s the way it should be.”

Senate Bill 306 would provide exemptions for persons making modifications to their own home, unless a subcontractor has been hired.