WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HF 662

State Building Code; adoption of rules authorized to increase accessibility for examination rooms.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Brion Curran and 2 co-sponsors

HF 662 authorizes updating the State Building Code rules to improve accessibility in examination rooms.

Introduction and first reading, referred to Workforce, Labor, and Economic Development Finance and Policy
#buildingsandbuildingcodes #hospitalsandhealthfacilities
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HF 662

Summary of HF 662 (2025-2026) — Minnesota

Purpose and main intent

HF 662 proposes changes related to the State Building Code by authorizing the adoption of rules intended to increase accessibility of examination rooms. The bill is framed within the state’s approach to building code regulation, with an emphasis on improving accessibility standards in spaces used for examinations (likely medical or professional licensing examinations) that fall under or intersect with state building code requirements.

Key provisions and changes

  • Rulemaking authority linked to the State Building Code: The bill explicitly authorizes the adoption of rules within the State Building Code that address accessibility improvements for examination rooms. This signals a pathway for regulatory updates without requiring standalone statutory amendments for each change.
  • Focus on examination rooms: The provisions target examination rooms specifically, aiming to ensure these spaces meet enhanced accessibility criteria. This could pertain to features such as door widths, turning radii, fixture accessibility, signage, or other elements that facilitate access for individuals with disabilities.
  • Integration with existing code framework: The changes are designed to be incorporated into the ongoing framework of the State Building Code, leveraging the state’s rulemaking process to implement accessibility enhancements.

Note: The bill’s text provided here emphasizes authorization to adopt rules for accessibility in examination rooms rather than detailing explicit numeric standards or construction requirements. The precise standards (e.g., ADA-equivalent criteria, exact dimensions, or phased timelines) would be defined in the adopted rules.

Who or what would be affected

  • Public buildings and facilities governed by the Minnesota State Building Code: Any examination rooms within facilities regulated by the state building code would be subject to the new or revised accessibility requirements once the rules are adopted.
  • Design professionals, builders, and facility managers: These stakeholders would need to comply with the new rules when planning, constructing, renovating, or maintaining examination room spaces.
  • State agencies and departments administering building code and rulemaking: Agencies responsible for updating and enforcing the State Building Code would implement the new rulemaking authority and oversee compliance.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Introduction and first reading: HF 662 was introduced on February 13, 2025, and referred to the committees of Workforce, Labor, and Economic Development Finance and Policy for consideration.
  • Sponsor information: The bill lists co-sponsors Brion Curran, Andy Smith, and Kim Hicks, indicating support from multiple members.
  • Next steps (typical process): After committee review, the bill would advance through additional legislative steps (possible committees of reference, debate, amendments, and votes in both chambers) and, if enacted, would proceed to rulemaking to implement specific accessibility standards within the State Building Code.

Potential impact and considerations

  • Accessibility improvements: By enabling targeted rulemaking, the bill could lead to clearer and more consistent accessibility features in examination rooms, benefiting people with disabilities.
  • Regulatory efficiency: Using the State Building Code rulemaking process may allow for timely updates to standards without broad statutory amendments.
  • Ambiguity pending rule specifics: The actual accessibility requirements (dimensions, facilities, or procedural timelines) will depend on the rules adopted under this authority, so stakeholders may seek clarity on implementation dates and compliance expectations once rules are published.

If you have access to the bill’s full text or the proposed rule language, I can extract and summarize the specific standards, timelines, and any fiscal implications in greater detail.

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

Sign in to ask a question.