February 16, 1999

BILL ANALYSIS

TO:Members, Committee on Economic Development, Housing & Trade

FROM:Kenny Pittman, Research Analyst (786-7392)

RE:HB 1767 - Revising building code law.

Brief Summary of Bill

CRemoves rulemaking authority for the Plumbing Code and Standards from the State Building Code Council and gives it to the Department of Labor and Industries.

1

BACKGROUND:

The State Building Code Council exercises rulemaking authority to adopt and revise the State Building Code.  The State Building Code is a technical set of documents that sets the minimum standards for the construction, reconstruction, or improvement of residential, commercial, and industrial buildings and structures.  These documents include the uniform codes setting building, mechanical, fire protection and plumbing standards, and rules for barrier-free design, and the State Energy Code.

The State Building Code Council is responsible for the review and approval of all amendments to the various codes that comprise the State Building Code.  Any amendment proposed by local governments, that affect single and multifamily residential buildings, must be submitted to the State Building Code Council for review and approval.

SUMMARY:

The authority to adopt and revise the uniform plumbing code and standards is removed from the State Building Code Council and placed in the Department of Labor and Industries.  The Advisory Board for Plumbers, within the Department of Labor and Industries, must: (1) adopt and maintain the plumbing code and standards; (2) approve or deny all county or city amendments to the plumbing code and standards that affect single and multifamily residential buildings; and (3) propose a budget for the operation of the advisory board.

The Advisory Board for Plumbers may also: (1) appoint technical advisory committees; (2) employ permanent and temporary staff and contract for services; and (3) conduct research into matters relating to the plumbing code and standards.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Requested February 12, 1999.

Effective Date:   Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.