Robbins Introduces Bill to Make Pennsylvania's Construction Code More Flexible

Harrisburg – State Senator Bob Robbins (R-50) has introduced legislation that would amend the Pennsylvania Construction Code Act to correct an issue that the Department of Labor and Industry is not able to address on its own.

A business, located in Coolspring Township (Mercer County), has plans to expand its operations and building. The problem is that when they purchased the building in the 1970's, they were not provided an occupancy permit. The Department of Labor and Industry has ruled that because this permit does not exist, the business will need to make the entire building come up to the present Building Code prior to expansion of the building. The cost of such an undertaking is quite extensive and cost prohibitive.

As such, Senator Robbins has introduced Senate Bill 736 which would grandfather any commercial or industrial structure that was occupied prior to April 14, 2004, and did not possess an occupancy permit from the Department. It would also allow municipal Uniform Construction Code inspectors the ability to issue permits, provide inspections, and issue occupancy permits on any additions and improvements to these existing structures. Additionally, the bill would safeguard municipalities by providing them with immunity from any actions that may arise from the original structure's occupancy.

Senate Bill 736 has been introduced and referred to the Senate Labor and Industry Committee. State Representative Rod Wilt (R-17) has introduced similar legislation, House Bill 1507.

CONTACT: Nate Silcox (717) 787-1322