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6/12/2025
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Assembly approves Shallcross Smith, Thompson bill that would require valid IDs for registered contractors
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STATE HOUSE — The General Assembly today approved legislation introduced by Rep. Mary Ann Shallcross Smith and Sen. Brian J. Thompson that would require all licensed contractor applicants to produce a valid ID.
“This bill goes a long way to create a more level playing field in the construction industry. It would ensure that homeowners are protected from negligent contractors or people passing themselves off as contractors by monitoring who is registering to become a licensed contractor. It would also guarantee that those who have violated laws and regulations would be identified by those who contract their services. This is important consumer protection legislation,” said Representative Shallcross Smith (D-Dist. 46, Lincoln, Pawtucket).
“We are constantly seeing contractor fraud stories on the local news and too many residents are still being victimized by morally corrupt contractors when they need home repairs. This bill will bring a significant level of transparency when dealing with contractors, which will protect homeowners from being scammed,” said Senator Thompson (D-Dist. 20, Woonsocket, Cumberland).
Under the legislation (2025-H 5558, 2025-S 0913), all those who want to register as a contractor with the Contractors’ Registration and Licensing Board would have to include with their application a legible copy of a valid government-issued identification.
The Department of Business Regulation, the Rhode Island Coalition of Housing Providers, the RI Builders Association and Build Rhode Island (a nonprofit trade association comprising four contractor associations) all testified in support of the legislation.
The measure now moves to the governor for consideration.
For more information, contact:
Andrew Caruolo, Publicist
State House Room 20
Providence, RI 02903
(401)222-6124
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