This bill establishes an expedited construction plan review program under the State Uniform Construction Code Act, allowing applicants for construction permits to opt for a faster review process by paying a premium fee of $500 for each required plan review subcode area. The expedited review must be completed within ten calendar days of submission. Municipalities can choose to conduct these expedited reviews through their local enforcing agencies, or if they do not offer this service, applicants may select a licensed private plan review agency to perform the expedited reviews. The local enforcing agency retains authority over the project and is responsible for issuing the certificate of occupancy.

Additionally, the bill mandates the Department of Community Affairs to create rules and regulations for the program, including a licensure process for private plan review agencies. The bill also includes amendments to existing legal language, such as replacing the term "subpena" with "subpoena" and clarifying the roles and responsibilities of private plan review agencies, including their obligation to maintain records and comply with municipal and departmental directives. The act is set to take effect four months after enactment, with the commissioner instructed to begin rule promulgation immediately.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 52:27D-124