Georgia 2025-2026 Regular Session

Georgia Senate Bill SR882

Introduced
2/26/26  
Refer
3/3/26  

Caption

Department of Community Affairs; to refrain from adopting the 2024 International Energy Conservation Code in order to protect housing affordability and maintain the current energy code framework of this state; urge

Impact

The resolution emphasizes that adopting the 2024 IECC is projected to significantly hike construction costs, with estimates suggesting that increases could exceed thousands of dollars per home. This financial burden, it is argued, could lead to thousands of citizens becoming priced out of the housing market, thereby worsening the existing affordability crisis. By urging the continuation of the existing energy code, the resolution seeks to protect both economic stability and the accessibility of housing for Georgia's residents.

Summary

SR882 is a resolution urging the Georgia Department of Community Affairs to refrain from adopting the 2024 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC). The resolution highlights the current housing affordability challenges faced by the state, attributing rising construction costs as a significant factor that exacerbates the situation for potential homeowners. Proponents of the resolution argue that the existing 2015 IECC with Georgia amendments maintains a balance between energy efficiency and affordability suitable for the state's climate. By avoiding the adoption of the 2024 code, the resolution aims to prevent further unnecessary increases in housing costs.

Sentiment

Support for SR882 is generally anchored in a concern for the affordability of housing, with advocates suggesting that implementing the more stringent regulations of the 2024 IECC would be counterproductive at a time when many citizens are already struggling to afford homes. There is a clear sentiment among these proponents that the move would help in preserving affordable housing opportunities for the residents. However, the opposition may argue for the importance of energy efficiency and environmental considerations, indicating a potential divide between economic and ecological priorities.

Contention

The resolution brings forward notable contention surrounding the balance of energy efficiency and housing costs. Critics of the adoption may advocate for stringent energy codes to promote environmental benefits, while supporters of SR882 emphasize immediate economic needs and argue against elevated costs. The resolution encapsulates a broader debate about how much regulation should influence construction practices in light of current affordability concerns, bringing into question the best approach for the state moving forward.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

GA HR1792

Georgia Department of Community Affairs; refrain from adopting the 2024 International Energy Conservation Code for residential construction; urge

GA HB1180

Updating the definition of the state building code to include the International Energy Conservation Code 2024.

GA H5846

Establish a moratorium on changes to the state energy conservation code from the 2024 International Energy Conservation Code until January 1, 2030, unless approved by the legislature and made effective by the governor.

GA S0765

Establish a moratorium on changes to the state energy conservation code from the 2024 International Energy Conservation Code until January 1, 2030, unless approved by the legislature and made effective by the governor.

GA HF3987

Rulemaking to adopt the 2024 International Energy Conservation Code without any state-level amendments required.

GA HR20

Urges and requests the Department of Conservation and Energy to study industrial use of water from Caddo Lake

GA H7738

Establishes a moratorium on changes to the state energy conservation code from the 2024 International Energy Conservation Code until January 1, 2031, unless approved by the legislature and made effective by the governor.

GA S3032

Establishes a moratorium on changes to the state energy conservation code from the 2024 International Energy Conservation Code until January 1, 2031, unless approved by the legislature and made effective by the governor.

GA S0631

Establishes a moratorium on changes to the state energy conservation code from the 2024 International Energy Conservation Code until January 1, 2030, unless approved by the legislature and made effective by the governor.

GA LB531

Provide an exception to the requirement that buildings constructed with state funds comply with the 2018 International Energy Conservation Code

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.