BATC has requested that the MN Department of Labor and Industry (DLI) delay implementation and enforcement of the residential sprinkler mandate and Energy Code.
Here’s what BATC members need to know:
– The request to stay the sprinkler mandate is made by BATC on behalf of its membership. BATC is arguing that the mandate is unnecessary and burdensome given the strong safety record of newly built homes with hardwired, interconnected smoke alarms. BATC is also requesting that the Energy Code be delayed and reworked to include a performance pathway, through which a builder could meet energy code compliance by an energy rating index, such as the HERS Index.
– The effective dates for the code remain January 24, 2015 for the building code and February 14, 2015 for the energy code. We’ve asked DLI to respond to our request by this Thursday, January 22.
– If BATC’s request is denied, we intend to seek relief from the Court of Appeals to temporarily block enforcement of these rules pending a final decision on the merits of arguments regarding the sprinkler mandate and Energy Code. Such temporary stays, if granted by the court, generally last 90 to 120 days preceding final court action.
BATC will keep you updated as we continue to seek ways to limit the unnecessary and costly impacts of the building and energy code changes for your business and most importantly, for your customers.
If you have any questions, call or email James Vagle at 651-697-7578.
