Bill > S1647

This bill implements several recommendations from the Walsh-Kennedy Commission Report to enhance safety regulations and penalties related to cutting, welding, and hot works processes in Massachusetts. The legislation mandates that all certifications and training programs for these processes must be performed using the National Fire Protection Association program or an equivalent program with robust features like a comprehensive electronic database, multi-lingual training, and annual continued education. The bill introduces a new legal definition of "Criminal Negligence" that encompasses repeated, reckless failure to comply with fire safety regulations. It significantly increases penalties for violations, establishing a graduated fine and potential imprisonment structure for offenses related to cutting, welding, and hot works processes, with fines escalating from $1,000 for a first offense to potentially 0.025% of total project value or $10,000 (whichever is greater) for third and subsequent offenses. The bill also empowers the Department of Fire Safety to create a public notification system for tracking non-compliance, which may include quarterly publications, an online database, automated notifications to property owners, and communications with insurance companies. Additionally, the legislation establishes more severe criminal penalties for violations that result in serious bodily injury or death, with potential fines up to $500,000 and imprisonment for up to 7 years.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1647