Corbett signs first bill into law
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Gov. Tom Corbett signed his first bill into law on Monday, repealing a requirement that new homes built in Pennsylvania include sprinkler systems.
In his brief remarks before signing, Mr. Corbett called the repeal a "common-sense" move, saying that the decision on whether a house has sprinklers should be up to the homeowner.
The requirement for sprinkler systems became effective in January, when it was automatically adopted in a set of changes to the state's building code. Under the new law, all updates to those construction regulations must be approved individually.
The building industry opposed the sprinkler requirement, arguing that it would drive up the cost of new homes by thousands of dollars. But firefighters and others pushed to keep the regulation in place, saying it would boost safety for emergency responders and residents.
The measure passed both the House and Senate earlier this month by wide majorities.
Mr. Corbett said builders must still talk with homebuyers about the costs and benefits of installing a sprinkler system. The state construction code also mandates that houses include hard-wired smoke detectors.
The governor added to the Republican lawmakers gathered behind him at the public bill signing that he is "looking forward to more bills coming, and to a budget on time."
First Published April 26, 2011 12:00 am
