HOUSE BILL NO. 377 An Act relating to an exemption from certain registration and practice requirements for persons preparing drawings or specifications related to the construction of certain buildings. MIKE PAWLOWSKI, STAFF, REPRESENTATIVE KEVIN MEYER, updated the Committee on the work done to address safety issues since the bill was last heard. He indicated that each side was present for testimony. 2:49:02 PM Co-Chair Meyer said there would be no public testimony as it had been closed at the previous hearing. He mentioned concerns regarding how it could work within statewide cities & towns. Mr. Pawlowski acknowledged discussion regarding that concern. Most places have building departments and planning review divisions. There was concern that the staff providing reviews might not be structural engineers. That argument was countered that building codes prohibit third stories being built in areas where earthquakes or high winds exist and it is a mute point for the bill. He thought reviews by structural engineers add expense. Mr. Pawlowski advised that Alaska Statute, Page 2, Lines 13 & 14, itemizes the exceptions. 2:51:18 PM Mr. Pawlowski added that per request of Representative Kelly, contact with various statewide building departments was made and have remained neutral on the bill. Representative Hawker noted he initially expressed reservation out of deference to the Architects, Engineers, and Land Surveyors (AELS) Board, but his position had changed and now supports the bill. 2:53:27 PM Vice Chair Stoltze pointed out the high cost of building residential units statewide and how costs associated with engineering increase that price tag. He emphasized the escalation of building costs, stating he would support the bill. 2:55:14 PM Co-Chair Meyer understood that it would conform the Alaska code to the International Building and Residential code. Mr. Pawlowski stated that there might be some distinction in the residential code. Representative Kerttula voiced the serious concerns that are not being acknowledged regarding load safety. She advised that she would address those concerns on the House Floor. 2:56:18 PM Representative Foster MOVED to REPORT CS HB 377 (L&C) out of Committee with individual recommendations and with the accompanying zero note. CS HB 377 (L&C) was reported out of Committee with a "do pass" recommendation and with zero note #1 by the Department of Commerce, Community & Economic Development. 2:57:02 PM