HB264 Summary

• Renames the Alabama Residential Energy Code Board to the Alabama Energy and Residential Codes Board and replaces the Model Energy Code with the Alabama Energy and Residential Codes based on 2006 International Energy Conservation Code and 2006 International Residential Code standards.

• Increases board membership from 13 to 15 members appointed by the Governor, plus 2 additional legislative members, with requirements for diverse representation by race, gender, geography, and economic status.

• Exempts farm structures (barns, sheds, poultry houses) from code requirements, excluding structures later converted to other uses.

• Prohibits state and local entities from amending federally mandated code provisions or requiring residential fire sprinkler systems in one-family or two-family dwellings, while preserving consumer choice to voluntarily install sprinklers.

• Requires board consideration of code updates no less than two years after publication of new code versions and mandates the board exercise sole authority over adoption and implementation of Alabama Energy and Residential Codes by the state.