May end-of-session roundup

Several states wrapped up their 2026 legislative sessions in May, with a mix of results that touch on building codes and clean energy, though little of it means immediate changes for most homeowners.

In Connecticut, lawmakers passed a bill stretching out how often the state must update its building, fire, and safety codes to match national model codes, only requiring updates every six years instead of more often. Groups that track energy codes opposed this, arguing that sticking with older codes for longer can mean higher long-term costs for homeowners, since newer codes often bring better energy-efficiency standards. In Illinois, the legislature adopted a new law aimed at lowering residents' utility bills while moving the state toward a 2045 clean-energy goal, though a separate bill that would have required schools to monitor indoor air quality did not pass. Oklahoma and South Carolina both saw bills fail that would have pushed for stronger energy-efficiency standards in state buildings and easier updates to commercial energy codes, respectively.

In Vermont, a bill setting rules for data center construction was vetoed, while a separate economic development bill — still awaiting the governor's signature — would let local governments set up "C-PACE" districts. This financing tool allows commercial property owners to borrow private money for clean-energy upgrades and pay it back through their property taxes, easing the upfront cost barrier. If it becomes law, it would apply to commercial properties rather than to homes directly. Arkansas voters, meanwhile, may see a ballot measure this November on establishing a constitutional right to a clean and healthy environment, if enough signatures are gathered by July 3.