Vacant Rural Building Act
If enacted, HB210 would empower the construction industries commission and local governing bodies to adopt rules that enable small businesses to occupy vacant commercial buildings that have been unoccupied for three months or more. This includes the development of a variance procedure that would specifically consider the financial implications of compliance with building codes, thus allowing small businesses to remedy only those conditions that directly impact life and safety. This approach could significantly reduce the financial burdens on small businesses operating in rural areas.
House Bill 210, titled the 'Vacant Rural Building Act', is designed to enhance rural economic development in New Mexico by providing a framework for small businesses to occupy vacant commercial buildings. The legislation aims to ease compliance costs associated with building codes, which can be a significant barrier for small businesses wishing to establish themselves in rural municipalities. By allowing for variances from strict compliance with building codes, the bill seeks to facilitate the repurposing of these vacant properties, ultimately revitalizing rural economies.
The bill does raise notable points of contention among stakeholders. Proponents argue that it is a necessary step toward economic revitalization in rural areas, providing small businesses with the opportunity to thrive without being hindered by costly and sometimes impractical compliance requirements. However, concerns may arise regarding public safety, as critics could view the variance process as potentially compromising building safety standards. The discussion around who gets to determine what constitutes a 'life and safety' issue could also spark debate on the adequacy of oversight in enforcing these new rules.