Bill > S1381

This bill aims to implement the recommendations of the Walsh-Kennedy Commission Report. The key provisions include: 1. Requiring all certifications and training programs for cutting, welding, and hot works processes to use the existing National Fire Protection Association program or an equivalent program with certain features, such as an accessible electronic database, multilingual offerings, and annual continued education. 2. Introducing the concept of "Criminal Negligence" in Chapter 148 of the Massachusetts General Laws, which includes repeated, reckless, and knowing failure to comply with regulations, and failure to perceive substantial and unjustifiable risks. 3. Increasing the penalties for wanton or reckless violations of the state building code or state fire code that cause serious bodily injury or death, including fines up to $250,000 or $500,000, and imprisonment up to 5 or 7 years. 4. Establishing a tiered system of fines and imprisonment for violations of regulations regarding cutting, welding, or hot works processes, with fines up to 0.025% of the total project value or $10,000, and imprisonment up to 3 years for third and continuing offenses. 5. Requiring the Department of Fire Safety to establish a system of public notification and recording of non-compliance with regulations and statutes pertaining to cutting, welding, and hot works processes, which may include quarterly publications, an online database, and communication with insurance companies.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/S1381