AUGUSTA (AP) – The Maine House rejected a bill Tuesday that would require general home contractors to get state licenses.

The bill would apply to those who install, remove, repair and replace framing, roofing, siding, insulation, windows or chimneys.

Builders who receive less than $3,000 per year from each owner would be among those exempted from licensing under the proposal.

Opponents said the new requirement would add to the cost of home repairs and to businesses’ regulatory burdens, which supporters said the rule would ensure homeowners of getting quality work.

With the House’s rejection, prospects for the legislation appeared questionable as it headed to the Senate. But a related bill that establishes a statewide residential building code has been signed into law by Gov. John Baldacci.

The enacted legislation allows towns to voluntarily adopt the code, which is consistent with international standards. About 80 Maine towns and cities already have such codes.