RI
Rhode Island Senate Bill S3032
Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session
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Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S3032

Introduced
3/5/26  

Caption

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.

Impact

The implementation of this moratorium will affect how state laws interact with national standards concerning energy conservation in building practices. By maintaining the 2024 IECC as the state’s basis for energy requirements, the bill seeks to prevent potential changes that could create confusion or inconsistency in building practices. The goal is to achieve compliance with the established codes in a significant portion of new and renovated buildings by developing and enforcing clear guidelines. Achieving at least 90% compliance will involve strategic planning and training initiatives supported by the state building code standards committee.

Summary

Bill S3032 proposes the establishment of a moratorium on changes to the State Energy Conservation Code that aligns with the 2024 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) until January 1, 2031. The bill is designed to ensure stability in energy conservation standards by preventing any new changes that deviate from the 2024 IECC unless enacted by the legislature with governor approval. This approach aims to streamline compliance for builders and developers regarding energy efficiency in construction and renovation projects across the state.

Contention

While the bill is aimed at simplifying regulatory frameworks, it may also lead to debates about local control over building practices and the adaptability of energy standards to specific environmental needs or innovations. Proponents argue that having a set standard without frequent changes fosters predictability and efficiency, while opponents may contend that a lack of flexibility could hinder local initiatives or advancements in energy conservation techniques. The balance between standardization and local autonomy is likely to be a central point of discussion as this bill moves through committee and legislative processes.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI 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.

RI 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.

RI 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.

RI S0506

Eliminates provisions establishing a legislative regulation committee, and would also repeal the provision that codes and standards adopted by the state building code standards committee subject to approval by the legislative regulation committee.

RI H5716

Eliminates provisions establishing a legislative regulation committee, and also repeals the provision that codes and standards adopted by the state building code standards committee would be subject to approval by the legislative regulation committee.

RI S0350

Defines a quorum of the building code standards committee be a majority of the current board members and amends the state building code to require that sections provide that dwelling units from one to four (4) units use the international residential code.

RI H5373

Defines a quorum of the building code standards committee be a majority of the current board members and amends the state building code to require that sections provide that dwelling units from one to four (4) units use the international residential code.

RI S0455

Increases the net taxable estate exemption to $3,600,000 on January 1, 2026 and increases the exemption by $1,000,000 on January 1, 2027, and every year thereafter.

RI H5493

Establishes a program for the energy and water benchmarking of large buildings in Rhode Island and a standard for their energy performance.

RI S0711

Restructures the Rhode Island Housing and Conservation Trust Fund, increases its membership to 15 members, 11 of whom are to be from the general public and reallocates the percentage of the funds for housing, conservation and other goals.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.