Iowa House Bill HF605

Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/3/23
• Engrossed: 3/22/23
• Refer: 3/23/23
• Refer: 3/28/23
• Enrolled: 5/9/23
• Passed: 6/1/23

Caption

A bill for an act relating to energy benchmarking requirements for private properties. (Formerly HSB 216.) Effective date: 07/01/2023.

Impact

The enactment of HF605 significantly alters the regulatory landscape surrounding energy efficiency for private properties in Iowa. By prohibiting county and city ordinances related to energy benchmarking, the legislation reinforces the state's position in regulating energy usage at a broader level. This change means that local entities can no longer impose requirements that may pertain to their specific environmental or energy concerns, which could lead to disparities in energy management approaches across different jurisdictions in the state.

Summary

House File 605 addresses energy benchmarking requirements for private properties in Iowa. Specifically, the bill establishes that private properties are not subject to energy benchmarking mandates that require either a reduction in average energy use or a comparison to the average energy use of similar properties. This legislative move aims to prevent local governments from adopting or enforcing such requirements, thereby centralizing regulatory authority at the state level. The effective date of the bill is set for July 1, 2023.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HF605 appears to lean towards support from business and property owner associations that appreciate reduced regulatory burdens. Advocates argue it promotes economic growth and simplifies compliance for property owners. However, there is also a note of concern from some stakeholders who view the bill as undermining local governance and the ability of municipalities to address specific community needs related to energy consumption and environmental policies.

Contention

The primary point of contention regarding HF605 revolves around the balance of state versus local regulatory authority. Critics argue that the bill strips local governments of their ability to enact policies tailored to their communities, particularly in addressing environmental sustainability initiatives. Supporters, however, contend that unnecessary local regulations could hinder property owners and create an inconsistent framework for energy management statewide. This tension highlights the broader debate on how best to achieve energy efficiency and environmental sustainability while balancing regulatory authority.