Connecticut building code legislation gains traction.

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Connecticut Rep. Paul Brycki reports that the state's Public Safety and Security Committee has voted in favor of SB 388 — An Act Concerning the Department of Administrative Services' Recommendations Regarding the Adoption of the State Building and Fire Codes. The legislation now goes to the floor of the House. The bill places the responsibility of updating codes for building, fire prevention, and fire safety with the state's Codes and Standards Committee. At a recent public hearing, Rep. Brycki introduced two code officials who testified in favor of the legislation that allows for quicker adoption of codes brought about by technological advances. Windham building official Peter Zvingilas told the committee, "This bill will help accelerate our state's adoption of building code cycles. Our code adoption process as it stands is in need of modifying." Joseph Summers, Hebron building official and zoning enforcement officer, added that "not staying more up-to-date in the adoption of a state building code greatly affects a municipalities" insurance rates. Both Zvingilas and Summers are directors with the Connecticut Building Officials Association and have worked closely with lawmakers on the proposed bill. Rep. Brycki says, "I believe passage of this legislation will help Connecticut in terms of public safety and to make sure we can efficiently adopt the latest codes to match what our technical schools and certification programs are teaching in the classroom." The new Connecticut Building Code is planned for adoption in the Fall of 2016 and will include the 2012 International Building, Existing Building, Plumbing, Mechanical, Energy Conservation and Residential Codes and 2014 National Electrical Code (NFPA 70) with state amendments.