Bill > HB06965

This bill makes several key changes to regulations concerning the State Fire Marshal and fire safety businesses. First, it establishes that the State Fire Marshal can only be dismissed after receiving written notification of specific grounds and being given an opportunity to defend themselves at a hearing. The bill also requires the State Fire Marshal to appoint a Deputy State Fire Marshal to assist in carrying out duties. Additionally, the bill modifies the composition of the Fire Marshal Training Council, reducing its membership from twelve to nine members and changing the specific representative categories. Most significantly, the bill introduces a new licensing requirement for fire and catastrophic restoration businesses, mandating that any person or company engaged in assessing, mitigating, repairing, or restoring property damaged by fire, smoke, water, or disasters must obtain a license from the Office of the State Fire Marshal. The license will cost $150 initially and $100 to renew annually, and the State Fire Marshal will maintain a public registry of licensed businesses. Businesses operating without a license can be fined up to $1,000 per violation. These changes aim to enhance oversight, professionalism, and accountability in fire safety and restoration services.

Budget and Finance, Justice

Public Safety and Security Committee (Joint)

https://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=HB06965&which_year=2025