The bill amends Sections 214.212 and 214.216 of the Local Government Code to update the municipal building codes for residential and commercial structures. Specifically, it adopts the International Residential Code and the International Building Code as they existed on May 1, 2018, replacing the previous reference to May 1, 2012. Additionally, the bill introduces a new provision that allows for the application of the 2012 codes for buildings related to agricultural operations, ensuring that these structures are governed by the older standards. Municipalities are also granted the authority to review and consider amendments made by the International Code Council to these codes after the specified date.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that the updated codes will only apply to construction, remodeling, alteration, enlargement, or repair activities that begin under an agreement made on or after January 1, 2027. For projects initiated before this date, the existing laws at that time will continue to govern. Municipalities are required to establish rules and take necessary actions to implement these changes by January 1, 2027. The bill is set to take effect 91 days after the conclusion of the legislative session.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Local Government Code 214.212, Local Government Code 214.216 (Local Government Code 214)