A provision in HB953 will require any Louisiana business performing plumbing work to obtain a new state license—or face significant penalties.
Most Louisiana manufacturing owners don't realize that a plumbing-focused bill moving through the legislature contains a requirement that could affect their operations: any business performing or bidding plumbing work will need to obtain a new plumbing contractor license from the State Licensing Board for Contractors (SLBC) by January 1, 2027.
Here's what HB953 actually does and why it matters to your business.
Under §2156.1(I)(1) of HB953 (found on page 16), effective January 1, 2027, any small business performing or bidding on plumbing work must hold a plumbing contractor license issued by the SLBC. This applies whether you're a general contractor, manufacturer, or service provider who handles plumbing as part of your scope of work.
The law doesn't carve out exceptions for in-house plumbing maintenance, facility upgrades, or bid preparation. If your business performs plumbing work or submits bids that include plumbing, the license requirement applies.
Operating without the required license is classified as an enumerated violation under Louisiana Revised Statutes §2158(A)(24). The penalties are substantial:
For a mid-sized manufacturing operation, a 10% fine on a plumbing contract could easily reach five or six figures. Debarment can block access to public and private work for years.
The bill has two effective dates:
This gives businesses roughly two years to apply, qualify, and obtain licensure. However, the SLBC's rulemaking process—which determines application requirements, fees, and exam standards—begins immediately. Those rules will define what "performing plumbing work" means in practice and what qualifications are needed.
If your manufacturing operation includes any plumbing work—whether facility maintenance, equipment installation, or bid preparation—document your current practices. Monitor announcements from the State Licensing Board for Contractors regarding the new license requirements and application timeline. Many businesses will need to budget for licensing fees, staff training, or exam preparation in 2026.
The provision is narrow in scope but broad in enforcement. Clarity on how the SLBC interprets "performing plumbing work" will come once rulemaking begins, so staying informed over the next 12–18 months is essential.
Source: HB953, §2156.1(I)(1) and §2158(A)(24), Louisiana Revised Statutes.