All contractors in Nebraska must register

An expanded state law that goes into effect July 18 requires contractors and subcontractors doing business in Nebraska to register with the state. The expanded law also increases the registration fee, from $25 to $40, said Bill Hetzler, director of safety and labor standards for Nebraska Workforce Development/Department of Labor in Omaha.

Failure to register can result in a fine up to $500 for a first violation and up to $5,000 for a subsequent violation, Hetzler said. A person who is self-employed and does not pay more than $3,000 annually to employ others in the business is exempt from the $40 fee, but must fill out an affidavit with an application.

Contractors can fill out the registration application under the “labor/safety laws” section at www.nebraskaworkforce.com, but the application must be printed out and mailed in with a check for the $40 fee, Hetzler said. More information is available by calling 402-595-3095.