Bill would require free online access to safety codes written into law
In committeeH.R. 4072Latest action
Sponsor: Darrell Issa · Representative · CA
AIDecoded by AI · checked against the recordRead the official text
Official title: Pro Codes Act
119th Congress
Topics: Jobs & the economy
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
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HR 4072 requires private standards organizations to post legally binding codes online for free, while retaining their copyright.
50-second read · 4 questions answered below
What does this do?
HR 4072 requires that when a government writes a private organization's technical standard into law or regulation, that standard must be freely readable online with a searchable table of contents. The online version must meet federal accessibility requirements so people with disabilities can use it. Organizations may require a free account or basic terms of service agreement, but cannot charge money or collect personal data without user permission.
Who does it affect?
This affects private standards organizations such as those that write building, electrical, and safety codes, as well as federal, state, and local governments. Everyday people who need to know what rules legally apply to their homes, businesses, or workplaces are also directly affected.
Why does it matter?
Currently many standards that carry the force of law cost money to access, leaving the public unable to freely read rules they are legally required to follow. If someone claims an organization is not complying with these requirements, the burden of proof falls on the person making the claim, not the organization.
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Where does it stand?
- IntroducedJun 23, 2025
- House committeeYou are here · Jun 23, 2025
- House vote
- Senate
- The president's desk
Right now: a House committee is reviewing it. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.