STATEMENT FROM PENNSYLVANIA BUILDING AND FIRE OFFICIALS  Those of us charged with promoting building safety and sustainability throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, including public servants and other experts in building and fire inspection, strongly support the Commonwealth’s commitment to regular statewide adoption of the family of International Codes.  The recent decision of the Pennsylvania Builders Association to legally challenge the adoption of the codes is not consistent with the long partnership we have enjoyed with all disciplines who participate with us in the code development process.   The tragic events in Haiti reinforce the need for us to be vigilant regarding how building construction and design can save lives and protect property.  Every time a new code is adopted, it’s the reflection of the best expertise and latest technology applied to making our communities safer.  These changes are made incrementally and build upon many years of work by participants from across the U.S., including the homebuilders who serve on the many committees submitting draft language for consideration.  One of the remarkable features of our code development process is that specific information regarding costs to housing affordability is built into the deliberations regarding the International Residential Code.  Every vote taken on the latest code language is informed by balancing costs with the overall goal of greater safety.  We know that the people of Haiti and in other vulnerable areas are especially aware of the risks in not addressing safety in the built environment.  We are proud of our long association with a diverse group of professionals who work toward consensus regarding safe and sustainable building codes.  This diverse coalition ranges from builders, architects, contractors, developers and owners to code officials, tradespersons, and members of the non-profit, scientific and academic communities.  As our knowledge becomes more sophisticated and the variations on building options continue to grow, the codes will continue to evolve and provide comprehensive guidance to the Commonwealth.   Contrary to the assertions of some, a comparison of comprehensive codes from past years to the present shows a consistent focus and adherence to providing the best guidance possible to create safe and sustainable communities.  Every state in the United States and a growing number of countries abroad, relies on the International Codes as a basis for many of its building safety regulations.  We are proud that our Commonwealth supports the results of an inclusive process that reflects years of discussion at the committee, development hearing and final action hearing levels.  All of us in Pennsylvania benefit from a safer and more sustainable built environment where we live, work and play.