Nicole Blissenbach

The Plumbing Board meeting included updates on enforcement and licensing, as well as department updates. Discussions covered the 2024 UPC update and an RFI from the Minnesota Water Quality Association regarding water conditioning contractors and bypasses in single-family homes. The board also received a Construction Codes Advisory Council (CCAC) update.

The meeting included updates on licensing and permitting, a legislative update summarizing the Construction Codes and Licensing legislative session, and the election of officers. Mark Worms was re-elected as Chair, Kyle Bain as Vice-Chair, and Matthew Marquis as Secretary. The board also discussed the rulemaking amending the Minnesota High Pressure Piping Code, which is set to be effective on October 27, 2023.

The meeting included discussions and updates on various topics, including the 50th Anniversary of the State Building Code, proposed DLI legislation on existing building energy, EV charging stations, window cleaning safety, assisted living, boiler inspections, and licensing. Code updates were presented, covering NEC 2023, commercial energy code, and residential energy code. Proposed legislation on commercial energy code (HF 772) and adult changing tables (HF 981) were also discussed. The council reviewed and commented on legislative and/or code information related to adult-size changing facilities.

The Apprenticeship Advisory Board meeting included discussions on board member updates, the Clean Economy Grant focusing on rural areas in Minnesota, apprenticeship program development in sectors like healthcare and construction, compliance updates with program reviews, and an overview of Apprenticeship Minnesota activities, including demographics and program updates. The board also discussed division priorities such as developing programs in new industries, increasing diversity and inclusion, and aligning with national apprenticeship systems. Furthermore, there was an update on the LEAP grant and future steps involving apprenticeship summits.

The Plumbing Board meeting included updates on enforcement and licensing, a Department update by Mike Westemeier, and a CCLD Division update by Todd Green. The board discussed RFI PB0183, Section 706, regarding plumbing fittings and the direction of flow, providing an interpretation for drainage systems with piping over 6 inches. Committee reports included updates from the 2024 UPC ad hoc Rulemaking Committee and the Construction Codes Advisory Council (CCAC).