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Bill > HB2547


OR HB2547

OR HB2547
Relating to fire safety systems in public buildings; prescribing an effective date.


summary

Introduced
01/13/2025
In Committee
01/17/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
06/27/2025

Introduced Session

2025 Legislative Measures

Bill Summary

The statement includes a measure digest written in compliance with applicable readability standards. Digest: Makes new rules about fire safety systems in public buildings. Sets penalties. Takes ef- fect on the 91st day after the session ends. (Flesch Readability Score: 68.6). Requires the owner of a public building to periodically conduct inspections and testing of fire dampers, smoke dampers, combination fire and smoke dampers and smoke control systems in the public building. Specifies qualifications for inspectors. Requires an inspector to issue a certificate of compliance if the public building complies with the applicable standards or to issue a deficiency report if the public building does not comply. Specifies a time period within which the public building owner must return the public building to compliance. Directs a building owner that receives public moneys for the purpose of replacing or repairing fire dampers, smoke dampers, combination fire and smoke dampers and smoke control systems to require a contractor to provide certain benefits to workers in connection with an installation or repair of equipment that fails an inspection or test or is otherwise deficient. Punishes violation of the Act with a civil penalty equivalent to five cents for each square foot of occupied space in the public building. Authorizes additional civil penalties for a continuing failure to comply. Takes effect on the 91st day following adjournment sine die.

AI Summary

This bill establishes comprehensive requirements for fire safety systems in public buildings, focusing on the periodic inspection and testing of fire dampers, smoke dampers, combination fire and smoke dampers, and smoke control systems. Building owners must have these systems inspected by certified contractors or engineers at specific intervals (every four to six years, depending on the system and building type), with detailed requirements for maintaining inspection reports. If deficiencies are found during an inspection, the building owner must correct these issues within 120 days and obtain a new compliance certificate. The bill imposes significant penalties for non-compliance, starting with a civil penalty of five cents per square foot of occupied space and escalating to ten cents per square foot for continued non-compliance after 240 days. Additionally, for public buildings receiving state or federal funds for repairs, contractors must meet specific workforce requirements, including participation in apprenticeship programs, offering health and retirement benefits, and targeting diversity in hiring. The State Fire Marshal is tasked with developing rules and standards for these inspections, drawing from national fire safety standards. The bill takes effect 91 days after the legislative session adjourns, aiming to improve fire safety and accountability in public buildings.

Committee Categories

Military Affairs and Security

Sponsors (1)

Last Action

In committee upon adjournment. (on 06/27/2025)

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