PlainBillCongress, translated.Legislation. Context. Public interest.Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.
Congressional Research Service
Version 53 · Passed House · May 8, 2024
National Construction Safety Team Enhancement Act of 2024
This bill expands the authority of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to investigate structural failures other than those involving buildings and to recommend related improvements to engineering standards and practices.
Specifically, the bill expands the investigative authority of NIST's National Construction Safety Teams. Currently, these teams are authorized to investigate the structural failure of a building that has resulted in substantial loss of life or that had the significant potential to cause a substantial loss of life. These teams must (1) identify the likely cause of the failure, (2) evaluate the technical aspects of evacuation and response procedures, and (3) recommend ways to improve building standards, codes, and practices and other related actions based on their findings.
The bill expands this authority beyond buildings to include other types of structures and related engineering standards and practices.
People & committees
Rep. Lofgren, Zoe [D-CA-18] · D–CA
Legislative record
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Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.
Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 358 - 41 (Roll no. 195). (text: 5/7/2024 CR H2922)
House roll call 195 · Individual votesPassed/agreed to in House: On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 358 - 41 (Roll no. 195). (text: 5/7/2024 CR H2922)
House roll call 195 · Individual votesConsidered as unfinished business. (consideration: CR H2986-2987)
At the conclusion of debate, the Yeas and Nays were demanded and ordered. Pursuant to the provisions of clause 8, rule XX, the Chair announced that further proceedings on the motion would be postponed.
DEBATE - The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 4143.
Considered under suspension of the rules. (consideration: CR H2922-2923)
Mr. Kean (NJ) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended.
Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 139.
Reported by the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology. H. Rept. 118-175.
Reported by the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology. H. Rept. 118-175.
Committee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held
Ordered to be Reported by the Yeas and Nays: 30 - 0.
Referred to the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology.
Introduced in House
Introduced in House
Primary sources
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Source last updated: Sep 8, 2026. Consult Congress.gov for the current record.
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Analyze H.R.4143 as objectively as possible. Explain its main provisions, who would be affected, possible benefits and harms, implementation, exceptions, and uncertainties. Present the strongest arguments for and against it, and identify evidence needed to assess its public impact.
Examine H.R.4143 through a progressive lens, focusing on fairness, access, economic inequality, and effects on vulnerable communities. Explain potential benefits, costs, and unintended consequences. Consider the strongest counterarguments and distinguish stated goals from demonstrated outcomes.
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