A new bill that is currently under consideration by the House Labor and Industry Committee will apply changes to the Uniform Construction Code in Pennsylvania.

State Rep. Doyle Heffley hopes that the new legislation will address certain issues that have been brought to his attention by residents and people involved in the construction industry in Carbon County, mainly regarding inspection officers.Currently, each municipality provides only one officer to inspect any work done by property owners, and Heffley said that residents, business owners and contractors have been expressing concern over this single option."These people feel that some code inspection officers have not responded to requests in a timely manner, have been difficult to deal with and in some cases, have abused their authority," Heffley said.The bill, if passed, will add an extra member to the UCC Review and Advisory Council, the body responsible for enacting new construction regulations, allowing property owners to choose from more than one licensed inspector."I believe that our economy performs the best when businesses and local government work together," Heffley said. "The complaints surrounding these UCC officers show me that is not happening."Also under the bill, the UCC council will be required to reevaluate construction code changes that were recommended in 2012 by the International Code Council.These particular codes will then be adopted by 48 states.Heffley said, "It is my hope that during this code review, new regulations will be adopted to address the issues being seen here in Carbon County."He said that the issue has much to do with a town's economy.When a business wants to expand but can't efficiently communicate with an inspector, the delay can negatively affect the business.Heffley said that people should have the freedom to choose an inspector, just as we have the freedom to choose other services.On behalf of he and his staff, Heffley said, "We're just trying to provide options."Woody Frey of Service Construction in Lehighton said that the additional option would be a good thing, but he hasn't had any problems concerning code officers."I prefer one of the building inspectors who I really like using. He's extremely helpful and very knowledgeable," he said,He said that it is unfortunate for people in other municipalities who can't turn to that particular inspector and get the same quality service.The bill is expected to be amended when the House returns to session in September.