Senate committee urges pause on adopting 2024 energy code, citing housing affordability concerns

The committee considered Senate Resolution 882, a priority caucus item introduced as a measure urging the Department of Community Affairs to pause adoption of the 2024 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) for single-family homes. The clerk said the resolution responds to concerns that adopting the 2024 IECC "would raise the cost of a new single family home by thousands," and that Georgia's existing 2015 energy code with state amendments already meets or exceeds neighboring states' requirements.

The chair noted Austin Hackney, executive vice president of the Home Builders Association, was present to provide additional details if members had questions. Senator Ginn moved to pass the resolution (lc640110s); Senator Burns seconded and the committee voted in favor. Members framed the resolution as urging caution so that adoption of costlier mandates does not worsen housing affordability without clear demonstrated benefits.

The committee passed SR 882 and adjourned.