Rhode Island 2022 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H7426

Introduced

2/9/22

Refer

2/9/22

Caption

State Building Code

Impact

If enacted, HB 7426 would significantly modify how the state building code standards committee operates by not only reducing membership but also changing the specific qualifications necessary for committee members. The aim of these changes is to ensure a more effective oversight of building safety regulations, which has implications for construction practices across the state. By centralizing expertise within the committee, the bill strives to enhance the efficiency of code enforcement and compliance with health and safety standards within the building industry.

Summary

House Bill 7426 is an act aimed at amending the State Building Code to alter the composition and qualifications of the building code standards committee. Introduced by Representative Jacquelyn M. Baginski, the bill proposes a reduction in the total number of committee members from twenty-five to sixteen. It also specifies the background and qualifications needed for committee members, requiring professional expertise in areas such as engineering, architecture, health, and construction. The proposed changes are intended to streamline the operational capabilities of the committee and improve the regulatory functions related to state building safety standards.

Contention

The bill's changes have not gone without controversy. Advocates argue that simplifying the committee structure could lead to quicker adoption of necessary codes and regulations, while critics warn that reducing the involvement of diverse stakeholders may limit perspectives on building safety and health issues. This is particularly relevant in discussions around community-specific regulations, which could potentially be overlooked with a narrower committee representation. Therefore, the debates surrounding HB 7426 reflect broader concerns over maintaining adequate oversight versus streamlining governance in the state’s construction industry.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H5386

State Building Code

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 S1089

Amends the composition of the building code standards committee and would make several technical amendments relative to the building code office and would establish a state building code office within the office of state fire marshal.

RI H5804

RI S0350

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.

RI H5373

RI HB198

Building codes; Alabama Home Builders Licensure Board; Alabama Residential Building Code, authorized to be established

RI SB743

Establishes the "Missouri Building Codes Act"

RI SB288

Building codes; Alabama Home Builders Licensure Board; Alabama Residential Building Code, authorized to be established

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