Bill to restrict local authority to require engineers on many single‑family plans draws strong opposition at public hearing

A House committee held a public hearing on House Bill 566, a proposal that would prohibit counties and municipalities from requiring a registered architect or professional engineer to approve plans for single‑family residences under three stories tall (with a municipal exception for Baldwin County). Witnesses at the hearing urged the committee to reject the bill or to refine it, saying local building officials need discretion to require engineering reviews in specific circumstances.

The bill's sponsor (name not specified in the transcript) said the measure is intended to lower costs and regulatory burdens on homebuilders. Proponents, including Jeremy Walker of the Alabama Association of Realtors, argued local over‑regulation increases home prices. "We believe this is part of a broader problem... that is directly leading to higher home prices," Walker said, and urged further dialogue during the off season rather than immediate passage.

Opponents focused on public safety and local conditions that can…