The proposed bill amends several sections of the Nebraska Revised Statutes to modify the requirements for counties, cities, or villages regarding the adoption and enforcement of local energy and electrical codes. Notably, it introduces a new requirement that any local energy code adopted must be determined to be cost-efficient, meaning the expected increase in implementation costs should be less than the anticipated energy cost savings over five years. Additionally, the bill stipulates that local entities cannot adopt or enforce an electrical code that deviates from the standards set by the State Electrical Board, although they may still conduct inspections through certified electrical inspectors.

Furthermore, the bill harmonizes existing provisions and repeals the original sections of the statutes that are being amended. It emphasizes the need for local building or construction codes to conform to state standards and mandates regular updates to these codes. The bill also allows local authorities to waive specific requirements of the Nebraska Energy Code if they can demonstrate that such requirements are not economically justified, subject to review by the Department of Water, Energy, and Environment. Overall, the bill aims to streamline local energy and electrical code regulations while ensuring they remain aligned with state standards.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 71-6406, 81-1618, 81-2125