Modifying the procedure for adoption and amendment of the Washington state energy code.
Summary
Establishes that the energy code for residential and non-residential buildings is the 2012 Washington State Energy Code (Code), as published by the International Code Council, Inc., and as amended by the State Building Council (Council).
Establishes new requirements for the adoption and amendment of the Code for both residential and non-residential buildings, including requiring the Council to work with stakeholders to develop a multi-tier process for the review of amendments.
Beginning with the development of the 2018 Code, directs the Council to endeavor to reduce the number of amendments it processes.
Clarifies the requirement of the Council to make a determination of the technological, economic, and process factors for each Code update and determine whether or not those factors would significantly impede adoption of a Code update that incrementally meets the energy reduction target of 70 percent by 2031.
Establishes amendments to the Code for either residential or non-residential buildings as significant legislative rules under Chapter 34.05 RCW, the Administrative Procedure Act.
Requires the Council to adopt rules that are consistent with Chapter 19.85 RCW, the Regulatory Fairness Act.
From the Engrossed Substitute House Bill Analysis 2015 (ESSB 5804), written by the Legislature's nonpartisan staff. Read the full report ↗
Did not passDid not pass · passed Senate, stalled in House