By Alabama Public Radio
Montgomery, AL – State officials are instituting standards for new elevators and are starting inspections of existing elevators. State Labor Commissioner Jim Bennett says the new regulatory process won't mean any additional taxes because inspection fees will cover the cost. The Alabama Legislature voted last year to set up the State Elevator Safety Review Board. It developed inspection rules and safety regulations that became official after a 30-day public comment period ended Wednesday. Under the new rules, all new elevator installations in Alabama must meet state certification standards, and all existing elevators must be inspected annually.