Bill > H899

This bill eliminates the independence of the Office of State Fire Marshal (OSFM) and returns its oversight to the Commissioner of the Department of Insurance (DOI), effective October 1, 2025. The bill repeals previous legislation that established the OSFM as an independent entity and ensures a smooth transition by maintaining current employees, rules, and existing administrative arrangements. Specifically, all current OSFM employees will continue in their roles, existing fire-related rules will remain in effect until amended, and current identification numbers and board/commission appointments will be preserved. The Commissioner of Insurance will now have authority over various fire marshal functions, including appointing representatives to pension fund advisory panels and board successors. The bill effectively transfers the State Fire Marshal's current responsibilities and organizational structure under the direct control of the Department of Insurance Commissioner, undoing previous efforts to create an independent fire marshal's office.

Government Affairs

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/H899