Democrats trying to block Republican move to repeal mandate
Democrat lawmakers are trying to stir up support to block a Republican proposal to remove a costly new mandate for residential home construction.
As of Jan. 1, Pennsylvania’s Uniform Construction Code (UCC) requires all new single and double family homes to have sprinkler systems installed. Those in favor of the new mandate say sprinkler systems save lives while home builders say the mandate increases costs by up to $7,000 per new home, hurting the state’s struggling construction industry.
Firefighters gathered at the state Capitol Tuesday to protest a move by House Republicans to repeal the mandate on sprinkler systems in residential homes.
House Republicans appear ready to move legislation to repeal the mandate. H.B. 377, sponsored by state Rep. Garth Everett (R-Lycoming), is in the House Labor and Industry Committee. Committee chair Ron Miller (R-York) said last week the bill is his top priority in the new session.
“We probably need to rescind [the mandate], even understanding that some people may want sprinklers and that is certainly their option,” said Mr. Miller.
In the state Senate, Appropriations Committee Chair Jake Corman (R-Centre) is working on similar legislation to repeal the mandate and change how the UCC is adapted in the future. The proposed changes would make the process more public, requiring hearings across the state before changes could be adopted.
Last year, the Senate passed a bill suspending the implementation of the sprinkler mandate, but the bill failed in the state House.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, sprinkler systems cost an average of $1.61 per square foot in new construction. On average, installing a sprinkler system to a new home would add $5,573 to construction costs but could cost as much as $10,000 in rural areas, according to the National Home Builders Association.
Tuesday, House and Senate Democrats hosted firefighters from across the state to draw attention to the issue. State Rep. Michael McGeehan said saving lives is worth the added cost.
“The home builders want to tell you the sprinklers aren’t necessary because it’s good for their bottom line. Sprinkler manufacturers will say they need it because it’s good for their bottom line,” said Mr. McGeehan. “Don’t weaken the UCC code in Pennsylvania. Don’t put Pennsylvanians in jeopardy.”
State Rep. Bill Keller (D-Philadelphia), minority chair of the House Labor and Industry Committee said some urban Republicans in the House are unlikely to support the measure to repeal the mandate. However, with Republicans holding a 112-91 majority in the chamber and a 30-20 majority in the state Senate, it will be difficult to block the move.
“It’s not a Democrat versus Republican issue. It’s a Republican leadership issue,” said Mr. Keller.
