Maryland Department of Labor - Study on Building Code Requirements for Single-Staircase Buildings

SB 436 requires the Maryland Department of Labor to study building code requirements for single-staircase buildings (those with only one stairwell for egress) across North America. The study will analyze factors like fire safety, water supply, cost impacts, and feasibility of building up to six stories in urban areas, with the goal of identifying potential changes to increase affordable housing development. The Department must consult fire safety experts and firefighter unions during the study and submit findings and recommendations to the Governor and legislature by December 1, 2025. This bill does not change current codes but sets the stage for future legislative or regulatory action based on the study’s findings. It directly affects future housing developers, local governments, and building code administrators who may implement recommended changes.