AUSTIN, Texas, July 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- A new House bill, the Pro Codes Act (H.R. 4072), aims to give private organizations copyright over a large swath of life safety regulations after they become law, raising concerns about free public access to legal requirements.

California Representative Darrell Issa introduced the legislation on June 23, 2025, and it has been referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary. The goal of the bill is to allow code publishers to maintain copyright over building codes and other regulations even after they are adopted into law by state and local governments.

A previous version of the bill, also known as the Pro Codes Act (H.R. 1631), failed to pass the House last year after facing significant opposition. The earlier legislation was opposed by a broad coalition of public interest groups, including the American Council of the Blind, the Center for Democracy & Technology, the Wikimedia Foundation, and many others.

"Americans should have free and unfettered access to the laws that regulate our schools, hospitals, and homes," said Scott Reynolds, CEO and cofounder of UpCodes, a compliance and product research platform. "The organizations backing this bill are aiming to monopolize the law, setting a dangerous precedent in which you have to pay to access the very rules you must abide by."

The legislation would affect regulations that govern how buildings are constructed across the United States. These laws ensure public safety and are currently accessible to industry professionals and the general public.

Construction professionals, safety advocates, and citizens concerned about public access to laws are encouraged to contact their representatives to express their views on this legislation. UpCodes has built a tool that lets you quickly find and email your representatives.

About UpCodes
UpCodes is a platform that helps companies manage code, assembly, and product research. Its mission is to empower Americans to build affordably, quickly, and enjoyably by creating intuitive, AI-powered solutions.

Media Contact:
Christie Horsman
Head of Marketing
christie@up.codes
‪(646) 727-0564
Website: https://up.codes

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SOURCE UpCodes, Inc.