Three states enacted legislation in 2003 that would require licensing of individuals involved with mold, according to the American Industrial Hygiene Association.

Texas legislation would require licensing of individuals involved in mold assessment and mold remediation. The rules for this licensing are being drafted and are expected to be open for public comment by the end of the year.

Louisiana requires licensing for individuals involved in mold remediation, and Arizona requires individuals to be licensed if they conduct mold inspections.

Several other states enacted legislation creating task forces to take a closer look at the issue. Illinois, Tennessee, Georgia and Oklahoma are cautiously looking at the issue, says AIHA.

2004 should be a very busy year for mold legislation, the group predicts. Five states have 2003 legislation that carries over to 2004, and one new licensing bill has been pre-filed for the 2004 legislative sessions.