Bill H.717 seeks to rename the Division of Fire Safety to the Division of Fire and Building Safety and transfer the oversight of Residential and Commercial Building Energy Standards from the Department of Public Service to this newly designated division. The bill mandates the adoption of a residential building code for public buildings with residential units and introduces a new subchapter (2B) focused on Building Energy Standards, which includes definitions, standards, and compliance requirements. Key amendments include the insertion of "and Building" throughout the text to reflect the new name and the repeal of existing building energy standards under 30 V.S.A. chapter 2, subchapter 1, in favor of new provisions for Residential Building Energy Standards (RBES) and a potential stretch code for enhanced energy efficiency.

Additionally, the bill outlines specific energy efficiency standards for both residential and commercial buildings, detailing exemptions for certain constructions and mandating compliance certifications to be submitted to the Division of Fire and Building Safety. It establishes a certification process for commercial buildings, allows for variances, and provides a private right of action for individuals affected by breaches of certification. The bill also creates a Building and Energy Codes Integration Task Force to streamline the administration of these standards and authorizes the adoption of a residential building code based on the International Residential Code. Various provisions have staggered effective dates, with some taking effect immediately and others set for future implementation.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 20-173, 26-5509