The "Speeding Development Act" seeks to improve the efficiency of building development in New Hampshire while ensuring adherence to safety regulations. The bill introduces new provisions into RSA 155-A, specifically section 155-A:7-a, which allows property owners to engage independent third-party providers, such as licensed engineers and architects, for building code inspections and plan reviews instead of relying solely on local enforcement agencies. This includes the requirement for local agencies to audit a percentage of inspections conducted by these independent providers to ensure compliance with applicable building codes. The act also emphasizes the use of electronic signatures for documentation and mandates that independent providers maintain professional liability insurance.

Additionally, the bill establishes a framework for independent providers to conduct inspections and reviews, stipulating that they can only operate within their licensed disciplines and must submit a certificate of compliance to the regulatory authority upon completion of their inspections. Regulatory authorities are required to issue a certificate of occupancy or completion within a specified timeframe after receiving the certificate of compliance, or it will be automatically granted. The bill limits the authority of regulatory bodies by preventing them from adopting more restrictive standards than those outlined in the new provisions and allows for stop-work orders in cases of immediate threats to public safety. It also provides a mechanism for applicants to challenge regulatory decisions in court. The fiscal impact on local governments is uncertain, with potential costs ranging from $10,000 to $100,000 annually for municipalities, and the act is set to take effect 60 days after passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 155-A:7
As Amended by the Senate: 155-A:7