Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Texas House Bill HB2439

Caption

Relating to certain regulations adopted by governmental entities for the building products, materials, or methods used in the construction or renovation of residential or commercial buildings.

Impact

If enacted, HB2439 would significantly alter the landscape of building regulation within the state. It would prevent local governmental entities from adopting rules that impose stricter standards than those set by national model codes. This change aims to streamline the regulatory process and encourage uniformity across various municipalities, enabling construction firms to operate more efficiently without navigating a myriad of varying local regulations. However, provisions exist within the bill that allow amendments for local concerns provided these do not conflict with the overarching state restrictions.

Summary

House Bill 2439 aims to regulate the authority of governmental entities regarding the adoption and enforcement of rules related to building products and materials in both residential and commercial construction. It prohibits these entities from enacting any regulation that hinders the use of materials approved by national model codes published within the last three cycles. The bill is designed to ensure that construction-related regulations do not create unnecessary barriers for builders and contractors while also maintaining safety standards that align with those established by recognized national codes.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB2439 has been mixed. Supporters laud it as a necessary step towards deregulation and an enhancement of economic activity within the building industry, arguing that it simplifies construction processes and fosters a more business-friendly environment. Critics, on the other hand, express concerns that the bill undermines local governments' ability to respond to community-specific needs and could inadvertently compromise safety standards as local ordinances are overridden by more generic national codes.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the tension between state oversight and local autonomy. Proponents argue that standardized regulations will benefit businesses by reducing bureaucratic red tape, whereas opponents fear that it could lead to a one-size-fits-all approach that may not adequately address unique local concerns such as environmental issues, historical preservation, or specific community needs. The bill's implications, if passed, would centralize control over construction regulations and potentially limit the capacity of local jurisdictions to make decisions tailored to their specific contexts.

Companion Bills

TX SB1266

Same As Relating to certain regulations adopted by governmental entities for the building products, materials, or methods used in the construction of residential or commercial structures.

Previously Filed As

TX HB4294

Relating to certain regulations adopted by governmental entities for the building products, materials, or methods used in the construction of residential or commercial buildings.

TX SB2453

Relating to certain regulations adopted by governmental entities for the building products, materials, or methods used in the construction of residential or commercial buildings.

TX SB39

Relating to certain regulations adopted by governmental entities for the building products, materials, or methods used in the construction of residential or commercial buildings.

TX HB3312

Relating to certain regulations adopted by governmental entities for the building products, materials, or methods used in the construction of residential or commercial buildings.

TX HB3959

Relating to certain regulations and taxes utilized by governmental entities for construction and tourism.

TX SB1955

Relating to the regulation of industrial housing and buildings.

TX HB3892

Relating to the regulation and industrial Housing and buildings.

TX HB860

Relating to municipal and county permitting requirements to conduct certain repairs on residential buildings.

TX HB276

Relating to the regulation by a municipality or property owners' association of food production on single-family residential lots.

TX HB4419

Relating to the promotion of film and television production in this state, including the eligibility of film or television productions for funding under the major events reimbursement program, the creation of a film events trust fund and a film production tax rebate trust fund, the establishment of virtual film production institutes, and the designation of media production development zones.

Similar Bills

OK HB3720

Local government investments; Oklahoma Local Government Investments Act of 2024; effective date.

TX SB1048

Relating to the creation of public and private facilities and infrastructure.

CA AB839

Medi-Cal: targeted case management.

TX HB2432

Relating to the creation of public and private facilities and infrastructure.

WV SB255

Relating to state contracts with and investments in certain companies that boycott energy companies

CA AB481

California Mental Health Planning Council: name change.

TX HB390

Relating to the Internet broadcast or recording of certain open meetings.

TX SB341

Relating to the Internet broadcast or audio recording of certain open meetings.