The meeting was called to order at 1:15 p.m. by Chairman Legislator Abinanti.

The minutes of October 28 and November 12, 1997 were approved and accepted on motion of Legislator Noto, seconded by Legislator Abinanti, carried by a vote of 3-0.

Next, the Committee discussed proposed amendments to the Plumbing Licensing Law. Mr. Phillipe Gille discussed the three changes which were: (1) to expand the number of board members and add consumer members; (2) to prohibit the Board from issuing licenses to themselves without an examination; (3) to require the examination fee for re-testing to remain the same as original fee.

Chair Abinanti requested that the County Attorney’s office use the same language as stated in the Electrical Licensing Law regarding qualifications for consumer representatives and clearly specify the waiting period (five months) between re-examination time for applicants who fail. It was noted in the discussion that current journeyman have until December 31, 1997 to apply for "grandfather" status without taking an exam. The Administration and the County Attorney will report back to the Committee with the changes.

The Committee then discussed a proposed local law to establish a Department of Consumer Protection. Formally establishing the Department, which has existed for several years without proper Charter language, would facilitate the Department’s assisting the Board of Plumbing Examiners and other Westchester Boards with administration and enforcement of licensing laws.

The proposed language would enable the department to handle more than just the weights and measures jurisdiction specified in State law. Disputes between the current Sealer (Director of Consumer Protection) and the Department Director over who controls staff have stymied efficient operation. Mr. Abinanti asked how the Sealer was appointed. Mr. Gille explained that the Sealer was selected under Civil Service through competitive examination.

Mr. DeCarlo stressed the importance of the Department and the accomplishments and recognition of the Department under his direction. He also stated that this office does more than just weights and measures functions specified in State law.

On the motion of Legislator Noto, seconded by Legislator Latimer the local law was moved for Public Hearing. Motion carried 3-0.

Next, the Committee revisited the proposed Electrical Licensing Law. Mr. Wishnie noted the need for clarification of the effective date for obtaining a license under the proposed Electrical Licensing Law. Mr. Abinanti requested that the County Attorney’s office draft new language which would postpone the effective date for at least 90-days.

The next meeting of the Legislation Committee will be held on Wednesday, December 3 at 2:00 p.m..

The meeting adjourned at 2:15 p.m. on the motion of Legislator Noto, seconded by Legislator Latimer.