   Our current legislative session is over, but there is still plenty to report on. First, SB 1481 (Hill) was passed and chaptered. This is the bill that extends the SPCB and implements the rest of the changes from the Act Review Committee. A committee met well over 20 times in the past 4 years reviewing the Structural Pest Control Act working to update the entire document chaired and filled with active PCOC members. There is also going to be a new governor of our great state. At this point, Gavin Newsom is the clear front runner but stranger things have happened, so PCOC is preparing for the change regardless of what happens.

   The final point to address is the talk surrounding the RA testing and licensing process. PCOC is engaging with the SPCB and OPES to get questions and concerns addressed. Recently, the SPCB held a test writing session with RA’s. This is when they bring in applicators to write the questions for the RA test. They had enough volunteers to be able to hold this session so thanks to a few companies who stepped up and sent some of their employees (kudos to those of you who did, it was much appreciated). I know there is never a good time of year, but we need to send people to participate in these sessions because it benefits our entire industry.

   This was an exciting year with some victories and some challenges, but we are moving in the right direction. Please continue your support for the association with your active participation in local and statewide events. This association would not exist without you!

Darren Van Steenwyk, M.S., BCE
Structural Pest Control Board, President
LEED Green Associate & Technical Director, Clark Pest Control
darrenv@clarkpest.com

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