...for satellite system installers which is much less burdensome than the existing requirement. After a three-year effort spearheaded by the Satellite Broadcasting and Communications Association (SBCA), along with its members and allies in the state of Minnesota, the new law will eliminate the requirement of having a low voltage technician license for satellite system installation, and in its place will be a more appropriate license specific to residential satellite installation. The legislation was authored by Rep. Tim Sanders (R-Blaine) and Sen. John Pederson (R-St. Cloud).

Zach Webster, SBCA Member and owner of Satellite Consultants, a satellite TV retailer and installation provider in Burnsville, Minnesota, testified before the Senate Commerce Committee in support of the legislation. "I support SF 2324 because it will allow the Department of Labor and Industry to administer a certification program that will focus on the skills and knowledge specifically needed to install satellite systems in residential settings and significantly reduce the licensure burden for satellite installers,” said Webster.

Current law requires satellite technicians to obtain a state low voltage license that far exceeds what is necessary for satellite installation, such as knowledge of swimming pools, fire alarms, outdoor lighting or refrigeration. Starting October 1, 2012, the new licensing requirement will allow satellite technicians to provide certification to the Department of Labor and Industry demonstrating successful completion of the National Standards and Testing Program for satellite system installers, a certification program administered by SBCA, or other program approved by the board and pass an examination administered by the MN Department of Labor and Industry. SBCA worked on the bill with both the MN Department of Labor and Industry and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), who were neutral on the bill.