Senate committee moves forward with deconstruction, salvage and contractor-certification pilot
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Summary
A proposed pilot (S.B. 8168) would incentivize municipal opt-ins for deconstruction and reuse of building materials, require the codes council to update the statewide code to avoid conflicts, and create contractor certification; members debated cost, market demand and whether state code changes should be mandatory.
Senator Brian Kavanaugh introduced S.B. 8168 to encourage deconstruction and salvage of building materials and to create a deconstruction contractor-certification program. The bill would authorize grants and technical assistance for municipalities that opt in and would require the State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code Council to review and, if necessary, update the statewide building code so localities could implement deconstruction options without conflict.
Committee members asked why the bill directs the code council to update the statewide code when the bill otherwise gives localities an option to opt in. One member said recent code council decisions make him wary of a mandatory statewide code change; the sponsor explained the provision is intended to ensure no code language would prevent a locality from choosing deconstruction measures.
Members also questioned whether there is an existing market for reclaimed lumber and other materials and how much deconstruction would cost compared with demolition; the sponsor pointed to Cornell University analysis and industry support from architects and builders. Some members said deconstruction adds cost and could raise construction prices; supporters argued that landfill disposal costs are rising and that reclaimed materials could feed mass-timber and other construction markets. The bill was described as a pilot to create capacity, generate more skilled jobs for deconstruction work, and reduce landfill volumes.
The committee voted to report S.B. 8168 to finance. The motion to report was moved by Senator Jackson and seconded by Senator Clear; members recorded feedback and several 'without recommendation' notations for the committee record. The bill now proceeds to finance, where costs and grant structure will be evaluated.
