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Bill

Bill

HB 307

An Act amending the act of November 10, 1999 (P.L.491, No.45), known as the Pennsylvania Construction Code Act, in Uniform Construction Code, further providing for adoption by regulations.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Danilo Burgos and 9 co-sponsors

HB 307 modifies Pennsylvania's process for adopting Uniform Construction Code standards through state regulations, potentially accelerating code updates while raising questions about local flexibility and implementation costs.

Referred to Housing & Community Development
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Bill Summary · HB 307

Legislative bill overview

HB 307 modifies Pennsylvania's Construction Code Act by amending how the state adopts and implements the Uniform Construction Code through regulations. The bill gives the state regulatory authority more flexibility in establishing or updating construction standards that buildings must meet.

Why is this important

Construction codes directly affect building safety, accessibility, energy efficiency, and housing costs. How Pennsylvania adopts these standards influences everything from fire safety requirements to whether new homes are energy-efficient, and can impact both developer costs and consumer protection. Regulatory changes can accelerate code updates or create inconsistencies across municipalities.

Potential points of contention

  • Regulatory scope vs. legislative oversight: Expanding regulatory adoption authority may reduce the General Assembly's direct control over construction standards, raising concerns about whether technical experts or elected representatives should set building rules
  • Local vs. state authority: Pennsylvania municipalities currently have some flexibility in code adoption; centralizing regulation could limit local customization for regional needs or create one-size-fits-all standards that don't fit all communities
  • Implementation timing and cost: Streamlined adoption of updated codes could burden builders and local governments with compliance costs if they lack adequate transition periods, though it could also modernize safety standards faster

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

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