S.B. No. 783 aims to amend regulations related to the construction or alteration of residential and commercial buildings in Texas. The bill modifies Section 3000.002(c) of the Government Code to clarify exemptions from certain regulations, including those related to outdoor lighting, historical buildings, and energy codes. Notably, it adds new exemptions for energy codes adopted by the State Energy Conservation Office and establishes standards for energy and water conservation design. Additionally, it removes a previous provision regarding plumbing product standards imposed by the Texas Water Development Board.

The bill also revises Section 388.003 of the Health and Safety Code, which governs energy conservation in construction. It stipulates that the State Energy Conservation Office may adopt the latest editions of energy codes but limits amendments to once every six years and requires an analysis of the impact on housing attainability and cost-effectiveness before any changes. The bill emphasizes stakeholder engagement by mandating a procedure for interested parties to comment on proposed energy code amendments or adoptions. The provisions of this act are set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 3000.002, Health and Safety Code 55.115 (Government Code 3000, Health and Safety Code 55)
Senate Committee Report: Government Code 3000.002, Health and Safety Code 55.115 (Government Code 3000, Health and Safety Code 55)
Engrossed: Government Code 3000.002, Health and Safety Code 55.115 (Government Code 3000, Health and Safety Code 55)
House Committee Report: Government Code 3000.002, Health and Safety Code 55.115 (Government Code 3000, Health and Safety Code 55)