Bill > SB259

This bill, known as the Carbon Monoxide Alarm Standards in Schools Act, requires public and nonpublic schools that use fossil fuel-burning heaters, appliances, or have an attached garage to install approved carbon monoxide alarms in classrooms within 18 months of the act's effective date. The bill defines an approved carbon monoxide alarm as a device that meets specific national safety standards, which can be a standalone alarm, a combination smoke and carbon monoxide alarm, or a detection system that differentiates between carbon monoxide and smoke. The alarms must be centrally located in classrooms on the same story as the fossil fuel-burning equipment or attached garage, and can be hardwired, plugged directly into an outlet, or battery-powered and mounted on a wall or ceiling. The governing body of the school is responsible for maintaining, repairing, and replacing these alarms and their batteries. Willful failure to install or maintain an operational carbon monoxide alarm is considered a summary offense punishable by a fine of up to $50. The bill does not modify the existing authority of the Department of Labor and Industry under the Pennsylvania Construction Code Act and takes effect immediately.

Education

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=S&type=B&bn=259