This bill amends several sections of Nebraska's building and energy codes to adopt updates from the 2024 editions of the International Building Code and International Energy Conservation Code, replacing references to the 2018 editions. Key changes include the adoption of specific chapters from the 2024 editions of these codes, such as chapter 13 of the International Building Code and chapter 11 of the International Residential Code, while maintaining certain exceptions for smaller facilities. Additionally, the bill establishes that any new state buildings must meet or exceed the requirements of the 2024 International Energy Conservation Code, and it mandates that local jurisdictions must adopt or conform their building codes to the updated state building code within two years of its enactment.

The bill also emphasizes the need for local building codes to align with the state code, allowing for amendments that address local conditions while ensuring compliance with energy efficiency standards. It requires local governments to notify the Department of Water, Energy, and Environment of any amendments that deviate from the newly adopted codes. Furthermore, the bill repeals the original sections of the law that referenced the 2018 codes, ensuring that the updated standards are uniformly applied across the state to enhance energy efficiency and safety in building practices.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 71-6403, 71-6406, 72-804, 72-805, 72-806, 81-1608, 81-1609, 81-1611, 81-1614