by
Rachel Tindall
| Dec 15, 2022
The start of 2023 brings the start of most state legislative sessions. Several factors indicate 2023 will see an increase legislative and regulatory activity. States will likely be adopting the 2023 edition of the National Electrical Code with amendments, and debate other issues on important technologies.
As technology and electrical systems become more deeply connected, the issues of electrical and low-voltage licensing have become more important. The increased use of Power over Ethernet (PoE), low-voltage lighting, and other technologies for residential projects have driven the rise in legislative activity at the state and local levels.
Setting the Stage for 2023
According to MultiState, CEDIA’s government relations tracking firm, there are some key election takeaways that will impact the 2023 legislative sessions.
- In November, 36 state governor seats were up for election.
- Legislative seats in 46 states were up for election in 2022, amounting to 6,166 of the 7,383 lawmakers. That’s 84% of all state lawmakers. Of the 99 state legislative chambers, 88 held elections in 2022.
- A state government trifecta occurs when a political party controls both chambers of the legislature, as well as the governor. Currently, Republicans have 23 state trifectas. Democrats have 14 state trifectas, and 13 states have a divided government. There should be a record number of trifectas in 2023, most likely 39 total. This is the highest number of one-party controlled states since at least 1992.
Changes to the 2023 Edition of the National Electrical Code®
Major changes were a part of the 2023 edition of the National Electrical Code® (NFPA 70), particularly in the sections that affect integrators. The NEC 2023 edition has been approved and is reorganized so it’s easier to use and includes the most up-to-date installation requirements. Many of the updates are related to the work of residential integrators. There are updates for Class 1, Class 2, Class 3 wiring, and a new Class 4 wiring.
Class 4 consists of circuits or fault-managed power systems sometimes referred to as digital electricity. It allows technology to be powered at higher levels with longer distances using cables previously limited to lower power levels. Class 4 circuits can be powered using Class 2 methods. Integrators can install Class 4 circuits.
In addition to Class 4 wiring, for the first time, the 2023 edition of the National Electrical Code® mentions cybersecurity.
Section 110.3(A) looks at electrical equipment cybersecurity provisions without compromising equipment safety and performance.
Section 240.6(D) addresses cybersecurity around circuit breakers that can be controlled remotely over the web or other networked means.
As we look ahead, and networking technical applications become more commonplace, the National Electrical Code® language about cybersecurity will expand and grow.
States and local jurisdictions often adopt the National Electrical Code® with amendments. It is important to know what edition of the National Electrical Code® is adopted by the jurisdiction you work in.
Stay Informed and Engaged
CEDIA advocates for its members and the smart home technology industry each day. CEDIA calls upon its members to be a part of the advocacy process. During the 2023 legislative sessions, step up when called upon. Support and defend your industry!
CEDIA has a digital advocacy tool to target specific messages at all levels of government. Legislators take outreach on issues seriously throughout the legislative process. Educating legislators is key to the legislative process. Your voice and participation make a difference on issues important to your business and industry. CEDIA’s digital advocacy tool helps increase participation and our collective voice on key issues for the smart home technology industry. In addition to CEDIA’s digital advocacy tool, taking the time to participate in legislative meetings and committee hearings are also critical steps to the advocacy process.
Together we are the voice of the smart home technology industry.