The Missouri Senate may vote at any time on HB 939, which prohibits local jurisdictions from adopting an energy code that exceeds the 2009 international residential code or the 2009 international energy conservation code.  Please, if you have not contacted your Senator – do so now!  Tomorrow could be too late.

The 2009 standard energy code from the International Codee Council is 15 years old and lacks key efficiency improvements. 

The proposed bill would apply to ALL new buildings across Missouri - residential and commercial. The League opposes this bill because it:

• Removes local control - More than 80 local jurisdictions have adopted energy codes that are newer than the 2009 code, including  cities of all sizes throughout the state. This includes the City of St. Louis and St. Louis County.  The State of Missouri should not interfere with adoption of more current codes by municipalities, especially since energy conservation needs may vary across the state.
• Asks Missouri to take a step backward - The most recent IECC energy code was published in 2024 and is currently available for adoption. States including Nebraska, Louisiana, and Texas have adopted at least the 2015 IECC as a statewide standard. Illinois requires that builders comply with the 2021 IECC. We cannot compete with other states with codes that are over a decade behind the most current codes. 
• Harms Missouri companies and their employees - Companies that produce high quality construction materials, including high-performance windows, building enclosures, roofing, insulation and air sealing products will lose business. In addition, local energy consultants, architects, engineers and heating and cooling companies could also lose work due to this legislation.  
• Increases energy bills and creates poor health impacts for Missourians - Stronger energy codes lead to improved insulation, air sealing, and mechanical systems, thus reducing energy bills. These same measures improve indoor air quality by reducing mold, moisture, and pollutants that bother those with asthma and allergies.