FINAL BILL REPORT

ESB 5450

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Background: State Building Code. The State Building Code (Code) establishes minimum performance standards and requirements for construction and construction materials in the state, consistent with accepted standards of engineering, fire, and life safety. The Code comprises a number of model codes and standards, developed and published by international and national organizations, which are adopted by reference in the State Building Code Act (Act). Model codes and standards adopted in the Act include the International Building Code, the International Residential Code, and the Uniform Plumbing Code Standards.

The State Building Code Council (Council) is responsible for adopting, amending, and maintaining the model codes and standards adopted by reference in the Act. Amendments to the model codes and standards adopted by the Council are codified in the Washington Administrative Code. The Council reviews updated editions of each model code and standard every three years. The Council may employ permanent and temporary staff and contract for services. The Department of Enterprise Services provides administrative and clerical assistance to the Council.

Summary: Mass timber products are defined as a type of building component or system that uses large panelized wood construction, including:

cross-laminated timber;
nail laminated timber;
glue laminated timber;
laminated strand timber;
dowel laminated timber;
laminated veneer lumber;
structural composite lumber; and
wood concrete composites.

The Council must, in consideration of national and international standards, adopt rules for the use of mass timber products for residential and commercial building construction.

Votes on Final Passage:

Senate	45	2
House	91	6