Pro Codes Act

HR 4072, the Pro Codes Act, requires standards development organizations (like ASTM or IEEE) to make technical standards publicly accessible online at no cost when those standards are incorporated by reference into federal, state, or local laws or regulations. This applies to over 23,000 standards currently referenced in the Code of Federal Regulations, ensuring the public can read them freely while allowing organizations to maintain revenue through paid subscriptions. The bill amends copyright law to mandate this free online access - including searchable features - within a reasonable timeframe after an organization learns a standard is referenced, without disrupting their business model. It balances public access with copyright protection, placing the burden of proof on anyone claiming an organization failed to comply. The law directly affects standards organizations, government agencies, and the public who rely on these referenced standards for safety, innovation, and compliance.