States are changing fire codes to make housing cheaper. Some safety experts are worried

States are revising building codes to cut construction costs and promote affordable housing, often by simplifying requirements like reducing the number of stairways in low-rise buildings and delaying updates to safety standards. While these changes aim to make housing more accessible, safety experts are voicing concerns about potential risks to public safety. The debate highlights a tension between economic development goals and the imperative to maintain stringent safety measures to protect residents.