The bill amends section 553.73 of the Florida Statutes to enhance construction requirements under the Florida Building Code, specifically focusing on impact resistance for certain buildings. It mandates that, starting with the next edition of the Florida Building Code, the Florida Building Commission must require that the entire building envelope of new constructions—including exterior walls, roofs, and doors—be made from wind-resistant materials capable of withstanding wind speeds of at least 160 miles per hour. This requirement applies to multistory residential occupancies, new residential constructions near tidal waters, those in high-velocity hurricane zones, emergency shelters, and the rebuilding of structures rendered uninhabitable by natural emergencies.
Additionally, the bill introduces the term "natural emergency," which is defined to align with existing definitions in section 252.34. The effective date for this legislation is set for July 1, 2026. The bill aims to improve the resilience of buildings in Florida against severe weather events, thereby enhancing public safety and property protection.