Virginia Senate Bill SB866

Virginia 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/2/23
• Refer: 1/2/23

Caption

Technical assistants; BHCD to suspend Building Code qualification requirement.

Impact

The suspension of the experience requirement is aimed at enhancing the efficiency of the permitting process while ensuring that all activities remain supervised. The bill mandates that any technical assistant who lacks the necessary experience must work under the direct supervision of a VCC employee who meets the experience criteria. Furthermore, additional oversight measures may be implemented by BHCD to maintain the integrity and reliability of the permitting system across the Commonwealth.

Summary

SB866 amends the Virginia Construction Code to allow for a temporary suspension of the experience requirement for technical assistants who issue permits. Specifically, the bill enables technical assistants without the mandated three years of experience to issue permits until either the next updated publication of the Virginia Construction Code or July 1, 2024. This temporary measure is designed to address immediate staffing needs within the permit-issuing framework amid ongoing regulatory challenges faced by the Board of Housing and Community Development (BHCD).

Contention

The discussions surrounding SB866 focus on the balance between expediting the permit-issuing process to meet demand and maintaining strict adherence to competency standards within the construction industry. Critics may express concerns regarding the potential for diminished quality or increased risk in the issuance of permits by less experienced personnel. Proponents, however, argue that the immediate needs of the construction sector necessitate flexibility in regulations to avoid delays while still safeguarding public interests through supervision. The bill is an indication of the responsiveness of legislative measures to evolving regulatory requirements.