The Minnesota Board of Electricity is accepting comments through April 15 on the adoption of the 2020 National Electric Code, without amendments, as the new Minnesota Electrical Code. This change is set to go into effect July 1.
As proposed, the 2020 National Electrical code will add to the cost of new home construction. Key provisions include:
- Exterior power disconnects
- Surge protection devices
- All ceiling lights setup for paddle fans
- Limitations on receptacles in bathrooms
- Retention of arc fault protection
Following a meeting with the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry outlining concerns, Housing First Minnesota sent the Board a letter on Monday, opposing the adoption of the 2020 National Electrical Code without amendments. The letter also requested a formal hearing on the proposed changes and included nine proposed amendments to the Board.
A decision on a hearing will be based on the number of comments received. Members with questions about Housing First Minnesota’s comments or the 2020 National Electrical Code should contact Nick Erickson, director or research and regulatory affairs.
