This bill revises the state building code laws in Montana by designating the legislature as the sole entity responsible for promulgating the state building code. It preserves existing exceptions for the Department of Labor and Industry, the Department of Justice, and local governments while requiring the legislature to direct the Department of Labor and Industry to adopt rules in accordance with the Montana Administrative Procedures Act. The bill amends several sections of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA) and repeals Section 50-60-204, which previously mandated a public hearing for certain rules.

Key amendments include the establishment of the legislature's authority to promulgate building regulations, with the Department of Labor and Industry required to adopt rules as directed by the legislature. The bill also clarifies that existing building regulations remain in effect until the legislature decides otherwise. Additionally, it allows local governments to adopt their own building codes and provides the Department of Justice with the authority to promulgate regulations related to building use and equipment installation. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2024.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 50-53-103, 50-60-102, 50-60-202, 50-60-203