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HB 25-1030

Accessibility Standards in Building Codes

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Jennifer Bacon and 34 co-sponsors

Updates state building codes to adopt stronger accessibility standards (e.g., ICC A117.1/ADA) for new construction and major renovations, boosting access for people with disabilities.

Governor Signed
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Bill Summary · HB 25-1030

Summary — HB 25-1030: Accessibility Standards in Building Codes

Status: Governor Signed (3/11/2025)
Introduced: January 8, 2025
Primary Sponsors: Junie Joseph; Lisa Cutter; Faith Winter; Rebekah Stewart (multiple cosponsors listed)
Classification: Bill

Note: The full bill text was not provided. The summary below sets out (A) the confirmed procedural history and sponsors, (B) the apparent purpose based on the bill title, and (C) the typical substantive elements and likely impacts such a bill would contain. For precise statutory language, compliance deadlines, and funding details, consult the enacted bill text or the state legislative website.

Procedural timeline (key actions)

  • 2025-01-08: Introduced in House; referred to Transportation, Housing & Local Government Committee
  • Late Jan–Feb 2025: Committee and floor consideration in House; amendments considered and concurred
  • 2025-02-26: Senate Third Reading Passed
  • 2025-03-06: Signed by Speaker of the House and President of the Senate
  • 2025-03-07: Sent to Governor
  • 2025-03-11: Signed by Governor (became law)

Purpose and intent

Based on the title "Accessibility Standards in Building Codes," the bill’s primary purpose is to update or clarify state building code requirements to improve physical accessibility of buildings and facilities — particularly for people with disabilities — by adopting or strengthening specific accessibility standards into state building codes.

Key provisions (likely and commonly included elements)

Because the bill text is not provided, the following lists typical provisions found in legislation with this title. The enacted HB 25-1030 likely does one or more of the following:
- Incorporates established accessibility standards (for example, national model standards such as ICC A117.1 or ADA/ABA standards) into the state building code for new construction and specified remodels.
- Requires state agencies, local governments, and licensed design professionals to follow updated accessibility provisions when issuing permits or approving plans.
- Sets applicability: defines which building types (residential, commercial, public buildings) and which actions (new construction, major renovations, changes of use) are subject to the standards.
- Provides timelines for compliance (e.g., immediate for permit applications after a stated effective date, or phased in for existing buildings).
- Establishes enforcement mechanisms, inspection and permitting changes, and remedies for noncompliance (e.g., stop-work orders, permit denial, corrective orders).
- May include technical guidance, training, or grants to assist local governments, architects, contractors, and building owners with implementation.
- May specify exceptions or variances and procedures for obtaining them.

Who is affected

  • People with disabilities and the general public — by improving access to buildings and public facilities.
  • Building owners, developers, contractors, architects, engineers — by changing design and construction requirements and potential compliance costs.
  • Local permitting authorities and state building code officials — by changing review and enforcement responsibilities.
  • Property managers and landlords — where retrofit or renovation requirements may apply.

Potential impacts

  • Positive accessibility outcomes: improved mobility and access to services for people with disabilities.
  • Compliance costs: potential increased design, construction, or renovation costs for affected projects, at least in the short term.
  • Administrative changes: local governments and permitting agencies may need to update checklists, training, and inspections.
  • Market effects: may raise upfront costs but reduce long-term retrofit costs and increase usability of spaces.

Next steps / practical notes

  • Consult the enacted bill text for exact definitions, enforcement provisions, effective date, and any funding or grant programs.
  • Check implementing rules or guidance from the state building code office or the relevant agency for technical standards and compliance timelines.
  • Building industry stakeholders should review permit application practices and engage with code officials about transition provisions and compliance support.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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