Scarnati Scores Huge Win For Homeowners

WARREN—Senator Joe Scarnati of the 25th District announced today that the legislation he introduced (sb1139) amending the newly implemented Uniform Construction Code (UCC) has been more than favorably received by his fellow legislators. Certainly aware of the need to provide homeowners with a break that would simplify their construction requirements, and believing the UCC to be far too intrusive, Scarnati took immediate action.

His original legislation was intent upon providing relief for homeowners and those involved in recreational pursuits. It should be noted that Senator Scarnati was not involved in the passing of the Uniform Construction Code imposed back in 1999.

"We started the process in hopes of getting more for residential home owners" stated Scarnati. "However, with an overwhelming bi-partisan effort, homeowners and contractors alike will be relieved to know that I, and my colleagues, have initiated an even more profound bill. Having passed unanimously in committee the bill now excludes all repairs and alterations that do not change the existing structure of a residential building from being regulated by the UCC."

According to Scarnati, this bi-partisan endeavor definitely places the citizen-homeowner and the contractor in the winners circle. Both will certainly benefit from the expanded offerings of the bill.

"After extensive negotiations with staff and other senators, we were able to remove the $5000 cap and now expect the new bill to come to a vote before the Senate floor by next week. Having spearheaded this process and with the expected positive results forthcoming, I believe a big difference has been manifested for those who needed this change the most, the homeowner" concluded Scarnati.

This amendment makes changes to the Pennsylvania Construction Code Act of 1999, commonly known as the Uniform Construction Code. It should be noted that the amendment makes reference to specific recreational cabins and as such will not have to conform to the original UCC mandates.

"I believe a significant step has been taken for the too-often harassed Pennsylvania homeowner. More government and more state bureaucracy is not needed for the hard-working citizens of the Commonwealth." Scarnati concluded by saying, "While this amendment does not go as far as I would like, it is a good first step toward reforming the UCC."