This bill mandates that a construction permit is required for any work involving asbestos on the interior or exterior of single-family homes, duplexes, or townhouses. It specifies that any employee or individual performing tasks such as application, enclosure, repair, removal, or encapsulation of asbestos-containing material must first apply to the enforcing agency to obtain this permit. This requirement is in addition to any other permits that may be needed from different enforcement entities. However, if the area of asbestos-containing material involved in the project is less than 1,000 square feet, the permit requirement does not apply unless specified by the enforcing agency or the rules set by the Commissioner of Community Affairs.

The bill also instructs the Commissioner of Community Affairs to adopt necessary rules and regulations to implement its provisions, ensuring that the handling of asbestos is more strictly regulated. This legislative change aims to enhance safety and oversight in asbestos-related work, which is currently often conducted without the need for a construction permit, despite existing regulations under the "Asbestos Control and Licensing Act." The bill is set to take effect on the first day of the third month following its enactment, with provisions for the commissioner to take anticipatory actions to facilitate its implementation.