Senate weighs reverting to Uniform Plumbing Code after industry complaints; bill advanced to third reading

Senate Bill 118 was introduced on Feb. 11 by Senator Wadips to direct the state to return from the International Plumbing Code (IPC) to the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC). Wadips told colleagues the change was prompted by complaints from mechanical contractors and apprenticeship trainers who said the IPC has produced inconsistent enforcement, higher training costs and reciprocal‑licensing problems with neighboring states.

Wadips listed grievances collected from building officials, including that "we have a code that not 1 inspector I have spoken to claims to understand," that training materials conflict with the IPC, and that contractors are "afraid to bid jobs" because of uncertainty in inspections.

Senator Mansell urged caution, saying a department‑appointed cross‑sector committee had recommended adopting the IPC and that overturning that advisory body’s judgment raises procedural concerns. Senators Montgomery and others questioned whether the state's short experience (about one year under the IPC) was sufficient to measure cost savings or harms.

Supporters of SB 118 said the IPC has generated extra costs and uneven municipal implementation that threaten reciprocal licensing with nearby states; some tradespeople and apprenticeship programs testified in favor of reverting to UPC to protect training and portability. Opponents said the change had industry supporters and urged more time for data to emerge.

The Senate called the question on SB 118. The clerk reported the result as '5 nays, and 1 being absent' and the bill was advanced to the third reading calendar for a later final vote.

Next steps: SB 118 proceeded to a scheduled third reading where the Senate will consider final passage after additional review.