FL H1577

Amends Florida Statutes section 553.842 to require the Florida Building Commission to specifically approve seven named evaluation entities for product evaluation and approval.

The approved entities are: National Evaluation Service, International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials Evaluation Service, International Code Council Evaluation Services, Underwriters Laboratories LLC, Intertek Testing Services NA Inc., Miami-Dade County Building Code Compliance Office Product Control Division, and NEMO ETC LLC.

All evaluation entities, including engineers and architects, must comply with a nationally recognized standard demonstrating independence or no conflict of interest.

State-licensed architects and engineers remain approved to conduct product evaluations under existing provisions.

Takes effect July 1, 2021.