Assembly Bill 450 proposes the creation of a new statute, 101.02 (26), which establishes the applicability of the commercial building code to certain public buildings, structures, or places of employment. Specifically, the bill stipulates that the commercial building code rules, as promulgated by the Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) and in effect on August 1, 2025, will apply if the plans for these entities are submitted for examination by April 1, 2026. Notably, the bill indicates that the commercial building code rules will incorporate the 2021 International Building Code, replacing the previous 2015 version effective September 1, 2025.

Additionally, the bill specifies that certain provisions of the commercial building code, particularly s. SPS 361.03 (7), will not apply to the public buildings, structures, or places of employment if the plans are submitted as outlined. This legislative change may have implications for the costs associated with the development, construction, and availability of housing in Wisconsin, prompting the Department of Administration to prepare a report on the potential fiscal impacts.