This bill amends several sections of the Nebraska Revised Statutes to update the state building and energy codes by adopting the 2021 editions of the International Building Code (IBC) and International Residential Code (IRC), while retaining certain provisions from the 2018 editions. Key insertions include the adoption of specific chapters from the 2021 editions of these codes, as well as the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code, which will apply to all new state buildings and those constructed with state funds after the effective date of the act. The bill also establishes that local governments may enact their own building codes as long as they conform to the state building code, and it requires regular updates to these local codes.

Additionally, the bill emphasizes the importance of energy efficiency standards in newly constructed buildings, aiming to ensure compliance with federal regulations and to promote energy savings for all Nebraskans, particularly low-income residents. The amendments include provisions for local governments to notify the Department of Environment and Energy when they modify their building codes, and it outlines the responsibilities of state agencies in reviewing and verifying compliance with the updated energy codes. The original sections of the statutes that are being amended are repealed, streamlining the legal framework for building and energy standards in Nebraska.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 71-6403, 71-6406, 72-804, 72-805, 72-806, 81-1608, 81-1611, 81-1614