SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5905

BYSenators Benitz, Bender, Amondson, Smitherman, Owen and Anderson

Modifying building code council authority.

Senate Committee on Energy & Utilities

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 21, 1989; February 28, 1989

Majority Report:  That Substitute Senate Bill No. 5905 be substituted therefor, and the substitute bill do pass.

      Signed by Senators Benitz, Chairman; Nelson, Owen, Stratton, Sutherland, Williams.

Senate Staff:Paul Parker (786-7447)

                  February 28, 1989

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON ENERGY & UTILITIES, FEBRUARY 28, 1989

BACKGROUND:

The State Building Code Council exercises rulemaking authority to adopt and revise the State Building Code.  The State Building Code includes uniform codes setting building, mechanical, fire protection and plumbing standards, the rules for barrier-free design, and the State Energy Code.

SUMMARY:

The definition of "multifamily residential" is broadened.  Existing and future municipal ordinances which effectively amend the uniform codes are required to be approved by the State Building Code Council.  Technical changes are made.

EFFECT OF PROPOSED SUBSTITUTE:

The existing definition of "multifamily residential" is retained.  Future and existing ordinances adopted after December 31, 1979 which effectively amend the uniform codes are required to be approved by the State Building Code Council.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      requested February 17, 1989

Senate Committee - Testified: Tom Fieldstead, Kirkland Fire/Building, King County Fire Chiefs (con); Otto Jensen, Washington State Association of Fire Chiefs (con); Blair Patrick, Washington Association of Building Officials (con); Gary Lowe, Association of Counties (con); Mark Tripplet, Builders (pro); David Williams, Association of Cities (con)