Rhode Island 2023 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H5942

Introduced
3/1/23  
Refer
3/1/23  
Report Pass
5/30/23  
Engrossed
6/7/23  

Caption

State Building Code

Impact

The proposed changes in H5942 may simplify the permitting process by authorizing local officials to enforce state building codes and manage the associated fees directly. Local municipalities will now collect permit fees, which will be deposited as general revenues and used to enhance statewide electronic services for permit management and inspections. This move is anticipated to foster better coordination between state and local governments regarding construction oversight.

Summary

House Bill 5942 proposes amendments to the Rhode Island State Building Code, specifically addressing the enforcement and management of permits for building projects. The bill allows local municipal building officials to take charge of enforcing the building code for structures owned or constructed by municipalities on state-owned land. This shift aims to streamline the permitting process and strengthen local governance in handling construction projects within their jurisdictions.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding H5942 appears to be generally supportive, particularly among local government advocates who see the measure as a means of enhancing local control. However, some concerns have been raised regarding the adequacy of resources for municipalities to effectively execute the newly granted responsibilities. Proponents argue that empowering local officials will lead to more responsive and efficient management of building projects, while skeptics caution about the potential for inequality in capacity among different municipalities.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise concerning the financial implications for local municipalities in managing these new responsibilities. Lawmakers and stakeholders will likely debate whether municipalities possess sufficient resources and technological capabilities to handle the increased demands of permitting and enforcement. Additionally, ongoing discussions about the balance of authority between state regulators and local administrators will be crucial in the enactment and implementation of H5942.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S0594

State Building Code

RI S2855

State Building Code

RI H7332

State Building Code

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 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 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 H5804

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 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 H5373

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 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.

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