Connecticut Senate Bill SB00388

Connecticut 2016 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/3/16
• Refer: 3/3/16
• Report Pass: 3/15/16
• Refer: 3/24/16
• Report Pass: 3/31/16
• Engrossed: 5/4/16
• Report Pass: 5/4/16
• Chaptered: 5/25/16
• Enrolled: 5/26/16
• Passed: 5/31/16

Caption

An Act Concerning The Department Of Administrative Services' Recommendations Regarding The Adoption Of The State Building And Fire Codes.

Impact

If enacted, SB00388 is expected to impact how building safety and fire codes are established and enforced at the state level, potentially leading to faster implementation of updated safety measures. The ability to reduce bureaucratic hurdles may increase compliance rates among municipalities, thereby strengthening overall public safety standards. However, this shift may also raise concerns regarding the thoroughness of public oversight, given the relaxed requirements for code adoption.

Summary

SB00388, also known as An Act Concerning The Department Of Administrative Services' Recommendations Regarding The Adoption Of The State Building And Fire Codes, aims to streamline the process for adopting and amending both the State Building Code and the State Fire Prevention Code. This bill allows the State Building Inspector and the State Fire Marshal to adopt codes without the previously required compliance with chapter 54 of the general statutes, simplifying the regulatory process. It mandates a public comment period and requires the posting of proposed changes and associated documentation on the internet, enhancing transparency and public engagement in code adoption processes.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB00388 appears to be cautiously optimistic, with supporters arguing that the changes will enhance public safety by facilitating quicker responses to emerging safety standards. However, critics express reservations about sacrificing public input and accountability in favor of efficiency, fearing that the new process could lead to less comprehensive safety measures.

Contention

One of the notable points of contention is the balance between efficiency and public oversight. Proponents of SB00388 caution against the risks of mitigating public involvement in the code development process, arguing that community voices should remain a vital part of legislative discussions related to safety and building standards. The bill requires responses to public comments but the process might still limit the depth of public engagement compared to prior regulations where compliance with chapter 54 was strictly enforced.