The Advocacy Update: July 2, 2025

Stay informed without the overwhelm. The Advocacy Update delivers clear, curated legislative updates restoration contractors can trust—highlighting the bills, policies, and issues that matter most to your business. Each week, get a quick, actionable overview to keep you prepared and ahead in a rapidly changing landscape.

Restoration Insurance

In New Jersey, RIA is working with legislators on A 551 expands consumers’ right to cancel contracts related to home improvement projects. Under current law, consumers can cancel home improvement contracts within five business days of signing if the contract value exceeds $500. This bill would extend this to individuals aged 60 or older who have an intellectual disability, with refunds being issued within 30 days of cancellation. This bill has been passed by the Assembly, and PolicyNote (our legislative tracking tool) predicts that this bill has an 87% chance of passing the Senate. If passed, this bill would provide additional financial insurance to elderly individuals with intellectual disabilities, but RIA has been working to ensure that there is emergency exemption language for emergency restoration work.

Disaster Response

In an attempt to counter price gouging following disasters, California AB 380 would extend the period during which it is considered a misdemeanor to sell goods at prices exceeding 10% of the pre-emergency levels from 30 to 60 days following the declaration of an emergency, directly impacting contractors who are responding to emergency situations. This bill has passed the Assembly, but PolicyNote predicts that the bill only has a 78% chance of passing the Senate.  RIA has worked with the Legislative Task Force to keep California members up to date and aware of potential changes with this bill and provide guidance and resources if they would like to act.

General Contracting

General Contracting legislation continues to be prevalent across the country.
➢ In Delaware, SB 63 introduces joint and several liability for contractors and their subcontractors, establishing a financial responsibility for contractors for the prohibited actions of their subcontractors. This bill has passed both the House and Senate and awaits the governor's signature. The governor has 30 days to sign or veto the bill. If passed, this bill would increase contractor accountability and consumer protection.
➢ Georgia’s bipartisan HB 635, enacted on July 1st, establishes a new licensing framework for residential and commercial general contractors in Georgia, as determined by a newly established 15-member State Licensing Board. The enactment of this bill will increase oversight over contractor licensing in the state, potentially enabling more efficient regulation through the Licensing Board.
➢ Finally, North Carolina’s HB 926 expands education requirements for general contractors by requiring eight hours of continuing education annually for continued licensing, with an exception provided to individuals who have completed the educational requirements for accredited builder or accredited master builder status, as established by the North Carolina Builders Institute. This bill, which has passed the House, would raise the bar on maintaining general contractor licensing.

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These weekly updates are part of RIA’s mission to educate, advocate, and elevate the restoration industry—empowering contractors to navigate legislative challenges and shape a stronger future for all.