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DENVER, CO – The House today advanced legislation on a preliminary vote that will update building codes to improve Colorado’s air quality, reduce emissions, and save people money on their utility bills.
“By building right the first time, we’ll save Coloradans money on their utility bills, improve our air quality and reduce harmful indoor air pollution,” said Rep. Tracey Bernett, D-Louisville. “All Coloradans deserve homes and buildings that are efficient, resilient, healthy and ready for the future. By passing this bill, we’ll address one of the largest sources of pollution in Colorado, make it easier and cheaper to own an electric vehicle, and consumers will be better protected from utility price spikes. This bill will help the 25 percent of Coloradans who are energy burdened save money on their utilities.”
“By building high quality, efficient new buildings, Coloradans will save money on their utility bills, and both our indoor and outdoor air will be healthier for everyone,” said Rep. Alex Valdez, D-Denver. “This bill doesn’t ban anything; it simply moves our state forward with updated building codes that benefit everyone, improve our air, lower utility costs and foster healthier communities.”
HB22-1362, sponsored by Representatives Tracey Bernett and Alex Valdez, would update Colorado’s building codes to improve energy efficiency, save Coloradans money, and reduce harmful indoor and outdoor air pollution. The bill preserves all appliance and utility options for consumers, including natural gas, and does not transfer enforcement responsibility away from local governments. Owners and occupants of existing homes and buildings would only be affected if their local government chooses to upgrade their building codes and the building owner chooses to undergo a major, permit-authorized renovation or addition.
For cities and counties that have adopted building codes, the legislation updates building codes to ensure that new buildings are constructed right the first time by incorporating electric vehicle charging capabilities, solar and electric-ready wiring, to save building and homeowners thousands off the costs of retrofitting their homes and saving them money on utility bills. While not mandatory, the codes encourage all-electric homes, which research shows cost less to build and save building owners money over their lifecycle. The bill includes $3 million in grant funding to help cities and counties adopt and enforce updated building codes, $1 million in grants for training for builders and contractors, and $22 million in grants and incentives to help finance energy efficiency upgrades.