Virginia Senate Bill SB409

Virginia 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Energy efficiency and climate standards; more stringent energy efficiency and climate requirements.

Impact

If enacted, SB409 would empower local governments to enhance building requirements significantly, aligning them with contemporary sustainability goals. Local ordinances could impose stricter compliance measures while also establishing a review process for periodic updates to these codes. This legislation responds to growing concerns about climate change and the need for communities to take proactive measures in building practices, thereby potentially leading to improved energy efficiency and reduced greenhouse gas emissions across Virginia.

Summary

SB409 seeks to amend the Code of Virginia by introducing more stringent energy efficiency and climate standards through the adoption of 'stretch codes' by localities. These stretch codes are defined as ordinances that incorporate energy efficiency standards or climate mitigation standards that exceed the current requirements set by the Uniform Statewide Building Code. The bill emphasizes local control, allowing municipalities to adopt and enforce these enhanced standards tailored to their specific needs in construction and building rehabilitation.

Contention

Despite its positive intentions, SB409 was met with opposition during discussion and voting activities. The bill ultimately failed to advance, being defeated in the Local Government Committee with a vote of 7 in favor and 8 against. Some lawmakers argued that the bill could lead to additional burdens on local governments and construction industries, which may struggle to adapt to more stringent mandates and could face increased costs passed on to consumers. The debate highlighted differing perspectives on local autonomy versus state-level regulation in managing energy and environmental standards.