Bill > SB494

This bill updates the state fire code to the 2024 editions of the Life Safety Code (NFPA 101) and the Uniform Fire Code (NFPA 1), and ratifies any amendments approved by the state board of fire control by December 31, 2025. It modifies procedures for reporting and investigating fires, requiring fire departments to report all incidents to the state fire marshal within 10 days and allowing the state fire marshal to adopt rules for this reporting. The bill also expands the state fire marshal's investigative powers to include building collapses and carbon monoxide releases, and mandates immediate reporting and investigation of such incidents when death occurs, with the fire marshal having the authority to share findings with law enforcement for potential prosecution. Furthermore, the state fire marshal will be able to charge inspection fees for electrical and mechanical safety inspections requested by property owners, local authorities, or contractors, with fees determined by a specific schedule, and can conduct local fire code inspections if local officials are unavailable after three business days, also potentially charging a fee. To aid inspectors, the office of professional licensure and certification will share data on current and past licensees of the mechanical safety and licensing board and electricians' board with the state fire marshal, while maintaining confidentiality for certain information.

Government Affairs

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_Status/billinfo.aspx?id=1248&inflect=2