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HOUSING STIMULUS TOPS HBAA AGENDA
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Housing stimulus is the most vital piece of legislation needed by the home building industry in the 2009 session. With the goal of reducing the current inventory of homes on the market by one third during this year, this legislation will stir excitement and should drive consumers back into the market place. The concept has received broad bi-partisan support. The Governor and the Speaker of House have both been extremely supportive, and Senator Lowell Barron has led the effort and plans to introduce the bill on Tuesday and move it forward at a brisk pace.
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HBAA LEGISLATIVE AGENDA TAKES SHAPE
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Although the HBAA has let it be known that the stimulus measure is the top of the agenda and the primary focus of 2009, there are other bills that will be acted upon throughout session. Below is a list of several of these bills:
· Statewide Building Code (Pending Introduction)
Introduced in 2008, this bill seeks to create a statewide building code. With the inclusion of mandatory fire sprinklers in the 2009 IRC, this bill is even more important. The HBAA expects the fire officials to once again oppose this bill.
· Copper Theft (HB 90)
Seeking to curb the ever present problem of copper theft on construction sites, this bill will increase the penalty for theft following a repayment period for the damage caused. The HBAA is optimistic that this negotiated position will garner support by all parties.
· Landlord Tenant (Pending Introduction)
Investment property owners are eager to see modifications to the current law. The HBAA hopes to incorporate the needed changes into the bill introduced by Senator Roger Bedford (D-Russellville) in the 2008 special session. Senator Bedford has expressed a willingness to include those changes prior to the bill's introduction this year.
· Electrical Board Changes (Pending Introduction)
This legislation will add reciprocity language to the law as well as allow for the adoption of a standard for use on complaints. The HBAA is seeking to eliminate the one-three year term provision for board membership and replace it with a two-three year term provision.
· Decentralized Wastewater Law (Pending Introduction)
This law would codify the jurisdictions of the ADPH and ADEM in permitting of decentralized wastewater systems.
· Electronic Security Board Changes (SB 125)
This bill seeks to limit who can install the wiring and units for home security systems. The HBAA opposes any action that would increase the cost of installation of these systems by requiring that a licensed alarm installer oversee the installation of the system.
These are just a few of the bills we are monitoring or are expecting to be introduced in the next few weeks. Click here to view the Bill Matrix that contains all the bills that are being followed. Throughout session you can view new additions, as well as actions taken on existing bills.
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LEGISLATIVE RECEPTION THIS TUESDAY NIGHT
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The HBAA's annual Legislative Reception is recognized as one of the best receptions of the Legislative season. This is a great opportunity to meet with Senators and Representatives from around the state and your home district. The HBAA encourages you to come and join us for this important event. The interactions you have with your legislators at this event help us in promoting the HBAA agenda throughout session.
If you are planning on attending and have a personal relationship with any of the members of Alabama's legislature, you are encouraged to call them personally and let them know that you look forward to seeing them at the reception. This direct contact will help ensure their attendance. If you haven't already done so, RSVP to the HBAA at 800-745-4222.
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