Washington 2023-2024 Regular Session

Washington Senate Bill SB5057

Introduced
1/9/23  
Refer
1/9/23  
Report Pass
2/17/23  
Refer
2/17/23  

Caption

Creating a work group to evaluate the costs of the state energy performance standard for covered commercial buildings.

Impact

Should SB5057 be enacted, it will likely impact the legislative framework surrounding energy efficiency regulations in commercial buildings. This bill represents an effort to balance the demands for sustainable building practices with the need to understand the financial burden these regulations may impose on businesses. The resulting evaluation will aid in shaping more practical and effective energy standards that consider both environmental goals and economic feasibility, potentially leading to more robust implementation of such standards across the state.

Summary

SB5057 seeks to establish a work group responsible for evaluating the costs associated with the state energy performance standard for covered commercial buildings. The primary goal of this bill is to ensure that the implementation of the energy performance standards is beneficial, both economically and environmentally, to stakeholders involved in the commercial real estate and building sectors. By shining a light on the financial implications of these standards, SB5057 aims to provide policymakers with crucial data to inform future regulations in the energy sector.

Sentiment

The sentiment regarding SB5057 appears cautiously optimistic, with recognition of the importance of energy standards in promoting sustainability. However, there are reasonable concerns about the financial implications for businesses and the operational burdens that might accompany such regulations. Stakeholders are aware that while better energy efficiency may yield long-term savings, immediate costs could deter compliance for some commercial entities, leading to an overall mixed perception of the bill's intent and future impact.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB5057 include the balance between increased energy performance standards and their economic implications for businesses operating in the commercial sector. Some critics argue that without a thorough evaluation of costs, hastily implemented standards could pose significant financial challenges for property owners and builders. Advocates, on the other hand, promote the bill as a necessary step towards ensuring that energy regulations are both effective and feasible, emphasizing the potential for a significant long-term positive impact on energy consumption and environmental sustainability.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WA HB1715

Regarding the costs of compliance with the state energy performance standard.

WA SB5345

Exempting certain public school buildings from the state energy performance standard.

WA HB1543

Increasing compliance pathways for the clean buildings performance standard.

WA SB5514

Increasing compliance pathways for the clean buildings performance standard.

WA SB5190

Revised for 1st Substitute: Allowing schools and school districts to request extensions to state energy performance standard deadlines for K-12 school buildings.

WA SB5156

Concerning elevator standards in smaller apartment buildings.

WA SB6007

Concerning employment standards for grocery workers.

WA HB1754

Evaluating the performance of the department of children, youth, and families in delivering child welfare services.

WA HB2497

Creating the Washington state ferries 75 work group.

WA HB1128

Establishing a child care workforce standards board.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.