Building Code Bill Passes out of House
on Final Vote
Next Stop: Governor's Office |
The HBAA's building code legislation passed out of the House this afternoon with a final vote of 101-0. The Senate concurred with a 27-0 vote. It now heads to Governor Riley's office for review and we expect it to be signed in the next few days. The HBAA is in contact with the Governor's office to answer any questions that may arise regarding the bill.
The legislation, sponsored by Senator Marc Keahey of Grove Hill, establishes Alabama's first statewide building code. It also provides for the adoption of the 2006 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC). Adoption of the IECC is a requirement as part of the state receiving federal stimulus funds.
Additionally, the bill does not allow any municipality to mandate the installation of fire sprinklers in new residential construction. The choice of whether or not to install fire sprinkler systems is now left to the homeowner.
This legislation is a long-fought for victory for the HBAA. The fire officials came out in full force to oppose the bill and were pushing for the mandating of fire sprinklers.
The HBAA thanks every member who telephoned, emailed, or spoke face to face with their legislators to encourage their support of this bill. HBAA President Cliff Pitman also expressed his thanks for the involvement from the members.
"I want to thank you for taking the time away from your office to come to Montgomery to speak in person with your legislators," Pitman said. "Your presence at the State House had a great impact and we could not have passed this bill without you."
We will continue to keep you updated on the progress of other housing-related legislation throughout the session. |
