HB 425 Summary

• Adds new requirement that beginning January 1, 2022, no building permits shall be issued for new building construction unless the applicant proves the building can withstand category four hurricanes.

• Requires building permits to be obtained for all new public buildings constructed by state government agencies beginning January 1, 2022, and mandates new public buildings be designed to withstand category five hurricanes.

• Amends section 107-27 to change reference from "state buildings" to "public buildings" in building design requirements.

• Directs the State to consider hurricane resistant criteria when designing and constructing new public schools for use as shelter refuges.

• Takes effect July 1, 2050.