Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S0350

Introduced

2/21/25

Refer

2/21/25

Caption

Defines a quorum of the building code standards committee be a majority of the current board members and amends the state building code to require that sections provide that dwelling units from one to four (4) units use the international residential code.

Impact

The legislative amendments aim to enhance the overall safety and compliance of building practices within the state. By mandating the use of the 2024 International Residential Code for smaller dwelling units and the commercial international building code for larger multi-unit dwellings, the bill ensures that all new constructions adhere to the latest industry standards. This will likely lead to improved safety regulations across various building types, making current and future residential constructions safer for occupants and the community at large.

Summary

Bill S0350 proposes amendments to the Rhode Island State Building Code, specifically focusing on the building code standards committee and the building regulatory framework for residential and commercial construction. The bill seeks to define a quorum for the building code standards committee as a majority of its members and outlines the procedures for appointing members with various qualifications including architects, engineers, builders, and public health officials. Additionally, it mandates the adoption of updated international building codes for residential and commercial properties, thereby ensuring that state laws align with contemporary standards in construction safety and efficacy.

Contention

Opponents of S0350 may express concerns regarding the additional financial burden that the updated permit fees could impose on small builders and homeowners. The inclusion of a permit levy for both residential and commercial permits is intended to finance statewide building inspections and review services, yet this may be seen as an unnecessary hardship by smaller stakeholders in the construction market. Critics could argue that while the intentions are to streamline compliance and improve safety, the increased fees might deter local construction projects, particularly for lower-income housing developments.

Latest S0350 Activity

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H7893

Establishes building safety code standards for multi-dwelling buildings and requires the development of recommendations for resolving any conflicts between fire safety codes and the building codes.

RI S2761

Establishes building safety code standards for multi-dwelling buildings and requires the development of recommendations for resolving any conflicts between fire safety codes and the building codes.

RI H5386

State Building Code

RI S2409

Establishes a new article in the state building code that provides that certain new housing construction contain at least one floor that meets the requirements for a Type C "ANSI'' Standards for Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities.

RI S2990

Amends various provisions relative to the duties of the state building commissioner and would establish a building code education and training unit to educate building officials and inspectors statewide.

RI H7983

Amends various provisions relative to the duties of the state building commissioner and establishes a building code education and training unit to educate building officials and inspectors statewide.

RI H7701

Consolidates and transfers the duties of the state building inspector to the state building code commissioner and establish a state building code education and training academy.

RI S2952

Establishes a program for the energy benchmarking of large buildings in Rhode Island and a standard for their energy performance.

RI S2630

Amends several sections of law relating to zoning ordinances to provide uniform zoning standards for accessory dwelling units.

RI S2998

Amends several sections of law relating to zoning ordinances to provide uniform zoning standards for accessory dwelling units.

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