Washington 2023-2024 Regular Session

Washington Senate Bill SB5875

Introduced
1/8/24  

Caption

Balancing energy efficiency with consideration of other factors such as housing affordability, development costs, and feasibility in the state energy code for residential structures.

Impact

If enacted, SB5875 would impact state-level codes and regulations that define energy efficiency standards for residential buildings. By emphasizing the need to take housing costs and development feasibility into account, the bill seeks to ensure that energy efficiency measures do not hinder the construction of affordable homes or lead to increased housing prices. This dual focus aims to create a more adaptable regulatory framework that can accommodate the diverse needs of communities across the state.

Summary

SB5875 focuses on balancing energy efficiency requirements with other critical considerations such as housing affordability, development costs, and the feasibility of implementing changes in the state energy code for residential structures. The bill aims to create a more integrated approach to energy regulations while considering the economic implications for homeowners and developers. This legislative effort reflects ongoing discussions about how to advance energy efficiency without compromising the essential needs for affordable housing.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB5875 appears to be cautiously optimistic. Supporters of the bill argue that it provides a necessary consideration of economic factors that have often been overlooked in discussions about energy efficiency. They view this as a step towards creating sustainable housing without burdening developers or prospective homeowners with excessive costs. However, there may be concerns from advocacy groups about whether the bill does enough to enforce energy efficiency measures that are vital for addressing climate change.

Contention

One notable point of contention regarding SB5875 is the potential trade-off between energy efficiency and housing affordability. Critics may argue that loosening regulations to support lower development costs could undermine efforts to reduce energy consumption and emissions. The balance between these priorities—energy efficiency standards versus the demand for affordable housing—will likely be a focal point in debates as the bill progresses through the legislative process.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WA HB2308

Concerning housing affordability tax incentives for existing structures.

WA SB6175

Revised for Engrossed: Concerning housing affordability tax incentives for existing structures.Revised for 2nd Substitute: Providing a sales and use tax incentive for existing structures.Original: Concerning housing affordability tax incentives for existing structures.

WA HB1193

Affirming that the legislature has not provided authority for the state building code council to use greenhouse gas emissions as a consideration in residential building codes or energy codes.

WA HB1715

Regarding the costs of compliance with the state energy performance standard.

WA HB1195

Concerning compliance with siting, development permit processes and standards, and requirements for permanent supportive housing, transitional housing, indoor emergency housing, or indoor emergency shelters.

WA SB5497

Concerning compliance with siting, development permit processes and standards, and requirements for permanent supportive housing, transitional housing, indoor emergency housing, or indoor emergency shelters.

WA SB5772

Requiring the state building code council to amend the state energy code to comply with the energy policy and conservation act.

WA LB288

Change provisions of the Property Assessed Clean Energy Act, the Community Development Law, the Nebraska Affordable Housing Act, and the Middle Income Workforce Housing Investment Act

WA SB5649

Revised for Passed Legislature: Concerning improvements to residential structures to reduce the risk of flood damage.Revised for 1st Substitute: Concerning floodproofing improvements to residential structures undertaken in accordance with the Chehalis basin strategy.Original: Concerning floodproofing improvements to residential structures undertaken in accordance with the Chehalis basin strategy.

WA HB1433

Concerning energy labeling of residential buildings.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.