The bill introduces amendments to the General Laws in Chapter 23-27.3, specifically focusing on the establishment and restructuring of the state building code office within the department of business regulation. It creates a new section, 23-27.3-107.0, which includes the state building code commissioner and their staff, the contractors' registration and licensing board, the building code commission, the design professionals unit, the building code standards committee, and all applicable subcommittees. The bill also amends section 23-27.3-107.4, removing the state building commissioner's role as the executive secretary to the state building code standards committee and granting them authority to enforce the state building code in municipalities without a local building official.

Further, the bill amends section 23-27.3-108.2, detailing the expanded duties of the state building code commissioner, including standardizing building code interpretations and ensuring consistent enforcement across the state. It increases the maximum levy on permit fees for one- and two-family dwellings and allocates the additional revenue to support a statewide electronic plan review system and contractor training grants. A new section, 23-27.3-108.3, outlines the creation of a building code education and training program. Additionally, the bill amends Section 35-4-27 regarding indirect cost recoveries on restricted receipt accounts, setting a 10% transfer to the general fund with exceptions for certain accounts. The bill is set to take effect on January 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
7983  SUB B: 35-4-27