The bill amends Section 23-27.3-108.2 of the General Laws to enhance the duties of the state building code commissioner, specifically regarding the implementation of electronic permitting for construction permits and development applications. It establishes a framework for a uniform, statewide electronic plan submission, review, permit management, and inspection process. The state building commissioner is required to adopt and implement electronic permitting for any category of state or local permit authorized under state law that significantly impacts the expediency of construction and development.

The bill introduces a new section, 42-14-20, which outlines the definition of electronic permitting and mandates the development of a schedule for migrating state and local permits to this electronic system. It establishes a fee structure, requiring an additional one-tenth of one percent (.01%) of the total application fee for each application submitted to be charged to applicants for permits designated to migrate to electronic permitting. This additional fee will be used to support the operation of a web-accessible service for the uniform electronic submission and processing of permit applications.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that all acts, requirements, filings, and documents necessary for compliance with the permit process for designated permits must be conducted electronically, according to a timetable set by the commissioner. It also mandates that all state departments, offices, boards, and agencies cooperate with the state building commissioner to provide necessary support for the implementation of this electronic permitting system. The bill takes effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
978: 23-27.3-108.2